Finding the best hammer drill can feel like a daunting task when you are staring at a wall of tools. Whether you are a homeowner trying to hang a shelf on a brick wall or a pro drilling through thick concrete, having the right amount of power makes all the difference. While a standard drill is great for wood, you really need that hammering action to pulverize masonry as you spin. Understanding the difference between a hammer drill and regular drill is the first step toward getting your project done right. In this guide, we have rounded up the top performers to help you pick the perfect tool for your needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 8 Best Hammer Drill Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Craftsman V20 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
The Craftsman V20 kit is a fantastic entry point for anyone needing a reliable cordless solution. It packs enough punch for heavy-duty job site tasks while remaining user-friendly for home repairs.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-performance motor delivering 280 unit watts out
✓ 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck for superior bit retention
✓ Part of the versatile V20 cordless system
✓ Includes two batteries and a carrying case
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit because it provides everything you need to start working immediately. The motor is surprisingly strong for its size, making it a reliable partner for daily masonry tasks.
Best For
This is best for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners who want a complete, ready-to-use power tool kit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a full kit
- Solid battery life with two packs included
- Comfortable ergonomic grip for long use
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some high-end brushless models
- Charger is basic and takes a while
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Good value and works great. I like Craftsman tools and the battery works with my other Craftsman tools.
Customer Review: The cordless hammer drill is an incredibly useful tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. It offers the convenience of not having to deal with tangled cords, while still providing ample power and efficiency.
2. SDS-Plus 9-Amp Rotary Hammer Drill
When you need serious impact energy, this 9-Amp rotary hammer is the tool to grab. It is designed for fast drilling in tough materials like concrete, brick, and cement.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Powerful 9 AMP motor with 3 Joules of impact energy
✓ 4 versatile functions including drilling and chiseling
✓ SDS-Plus bit system for quick, secure bit changes
✓ Safety clutch to protect the user from high torque
Why We Recommend It
This tool stands out because it offers professional-grade power at a very reasonable price. It handles overhead drilling exceptionally well thanks to its balanced 7.19 lb weight.
Best For
Ideal for heavy renovation projects involving concrete walls or removing old tiles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible impact force for the price
- Four distinct modes for total versatility
- Lightweight enough for overhead work
Cons:
- Requires specific SDS-Plus bits
- Corded design limits portability
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Amazed. Needed a quick replacement… in drilling 2″ holes in reinforced 5000psi concrete, it performed exceptionally well.
Customer Review: Installed a handrail on my porch and needed to drill 8 holes thru brick laid over concrete. This tool did the job with ease, no kidding.
3. Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill Kit
If you only need a hammer drill occasionally, the Hammerhead 7.5-Amp model is the perfect budget-friendly pick. It is powerful enough for most home projects without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 7.5-Amp motor for consistent power delivery
✓ 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck for easy bit swaps
✓ 2-in-1 function switch between drill and hammer modes
✓ Variable speed trigger for precise control
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this because it is simple and effective. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a $200 tool, but it gets through brick and mortar with ease.
Best For
Great for budget-conscious DIYers who need to drill into masonry once or twice a year.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable price point
- Includes a basic set of drill bits
- Metal chuck feels durable and strong
Cons:
- Gets warm during extended heavy use
- Cord is somewhat short
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I was surprised by how much power this budget drill has. It went through my brick wall like butter during my porch light installation.
Customer Review: The included bits are a nice touch. For the price, you really can’t beat this for simple home repairs and hanging decorations.
4. Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme Rotary Hammer
The “Bulldog” name is legendary for a reason. This Bosch rotary hammer is a workhorse that pros have trusted for decades to chew through concrete.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3 operating modes including Rotation-only and Hammer-only
✓ Vibration control for improved comfort during all-day use
✓ D-handle design for optimal control during downward drilling
✓ Variable speed trigger with reverse function
Why We Recommend It
This is a must-have because of its durability. It is built to take abuse on a job site while providing smooth, controlled impact that doesn’t tear up your hands.
Best For
Professionals and serious renovators who need to chisel through tile or drill deep holes in concrete.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Proven longevity and industrial durability
- Excellent vibration dampening
- Easy mode switching even with gloves on
Cons:
- Bulkier than standard hammer drills
- Premium price compared to DIY brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: 2-1/2 years later this tool has held up to the test of time, durability, and performance (and abuse!). It has so far easily chiseled through 600sqft of floor tile.
Customer Review: This hammer drill has come in very useful for me when working with concrete, rock, and brick. The hammer mode is great for demolition.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill
If you are already on the Dewalt battery platform, this brushless SDS drill is a game-changer. It combines cordless convenience with the raw power of a corded tool.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2.1 Joules of impact energy for lightning-fast drilling
✓ SHOCKS Active Vibration Control reduces user fatigue
✓ Efficient brushless motor for extended runtime
✓ Lightweight design perfect for rod hanging and overhead work
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its balance of power and ergonomics. The SHOCKS system makes a massive difference in how your arms feel after a long day of drilling.
Best For
Commercial contractors and electricians who need a powerful, portable cordless drill option for masonry.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No power cord to trip over on ladders
- Very low vibration compared to competitors
- Part of the huge Dewalt 20V battery family
Cons:
- Bare tool only (must buy battery separately)
- Can be expensive for casual users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This SDS drill is so light compared to my old corded one. My arms don’t get tired even when working overhead on seismic attachments.
Customer Review: The vibration control is the real deal. I can drill into concrete all day without my hands going numb. Best tool in my bag.
6. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill Driver
Milwaukee is known for pushing the limits of torque, and this M18 Fuel hammer drill is no exception. It is compact but packs a punch that rivals larger tools.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ All-metal chuck with carbide teeth for insane bit grip
✓ Mechanical clutch for consistent driving
✓ POWERSTATE brushless motor for maximum durability
✓ Compact design for tight workspaces
Why We Recommend It
The build quality here is top-tier. The all-metal chuck ensures that bits won’t slip even when you are putting maximum pressure on the tool.
Best For
Pros who need a tool that can switch between driving screws and drilling through masonry instantly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Industry-leading torque in a compact size
- Extremely durable metal components
- Excellent runtime with 5.0Ah batteries
Cons:
- It can be too powerful (wrist kick) if not careful
- Higher price point for the tool alone
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I picked up this Milwaukee M18 FUEL hammer drill recently for heavy-duty projects and man, it’s been a game-changer. Drilling into concrete for shelves was easy.
Customer Review: My grandson loved this gift and said the quality of the product is excellent. Definitely built to last.
7. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill Kit
This is the full-kit version of the M18 Fuel hammer drill, perfect for those starting fresh with the Milwaukee M18 system. It includes high-output batteries for peak performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Complete kit with variable speed motor
✓ Carbide teeth in chuck for maximum retention
✓ High Output brushless technology for cool operation
✓ Unmatched runtime with 5.0Ah batteries
Why We Recommend It
If you are looking to invest in a premium tool ecosystem, this kit is the way to go. The batteries are best-in-class and provide consistent power even as the charge drops.
Best For
Construction pros or serious homeowners who want the absolute best hammer drill performance without compromising on power.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comes with everything needed to start
- Batteries charge remarkably fast
- Variable speed trigger is very sensitive and precise
Cons:
- Heavier than non-hammer versions
- Major investment compared to budget brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Wow, I heard good things about this drill but I have to say.. It was all true. I have a lot of holes to drill in concrete walls and it performed perfect.
Customer Review: I bought this to use for boring 1” holes into wood using an auger bit… Straight out of the box with a barely charged battery, it was through in under 10 seconds.
8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill (DCD996B)
The XR line from Dewalt represents their top-tier brushless tech. This hammer drill is a favorite among roofers and framers for its 3-speed transmission and bright LED lighting.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3-speed, high-performance all-metal transmission
✓ 3-mode LED light that is 20X brighter than older models
✓ Heavy-duty nitro-carburized metal chuck
✓ Brushless motor provides 75% more runtime
Why We Recommend It
We love the 3-speed settings which allow you to match the speed to your material perfectly. It is also excellent for dark, cramped spaces like attics or under decks.
Best For
Workers who need versatility and visibility on complex job sites.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The 3-speed transmission is highly versatile
- Incredible LED lighting for dark corners
- Very durable chuck stands up to heavy vibration
Cons:
- Tool is a bit long for very tight spaces
- Needs high-amp batteries for best hammer performance
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Great for medium duty masonry jobs. If you want it for regular drilling, it is very powerful. 5 amp batteries or bigger are best.
Customer Review: My 18V Dewalt drill kicked the bucket after five years, so it was time for a new one. I decided to go with what seems to be Dewalt’s top of the line 20V drill.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hammer Drill
Essential Factors We Consider
When looking for the best hammer drill, the first thing you need to check is the Amperage (for corded) or Voltage (for cordless). A higher amp or volt rating usually means more power to get through hard concrete. You should also look at the BPM (Blows Per Minute). This number tells you how fast the hammering action works. Another thing to think about is the chuck type; SDS-Plus is standard for heavy masonry, while a standard 1/2-inch chuck is more versatile for different bit types.
Budget Planning
You don’t always need to spend $300 to get a good drill. If you only have one project, a budget corded model is often the smartest choice. However, if you are planning to build a whole tool collection, spending more on a brushless cordless kit will save you money in the long run by giving you interchangeable batteries. Also, consider the difference between impact driver and hammer drill so you don’t buy two tools when one might do both jobs.
Final Thoughts
A good hammer drill is an investment that makes impossible jobs feel easy. Whether you choose the industrial strength of a Bosch Bulldog or the portability of a Milwaukee M18, having the right tool is the secret to a professional finish. Always remember to use masonry-specific bits for the best results!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a hammer drill as a regular drill?
A: Yes! Most hammer drills have a switch that lets you turn off the hammering action, allowing you to use it for wood or metal like a normal drill.
Q: Do I need a special drill bit for concrete?
A: Absolutely. You must use masonry bits, which often have a carbide tip designed to handle the impact and heat of drilling through stone and brick.
Q: What is the difference between a hammer drill and an SDS drill?
A: A standard hammer drill uses a regular chuck, while an SDS drill uses a specialized slotted system that allows the bit to move more freely, delivering much harder impacts.
Q: Is a brushless motor worth the extra money?
A: Usually, yes. Brushless motors last longer, run cooler, and provide more battery life than older brushed designs.
Choosing the best hammer drill doesn’t have to be stressful. Start by identifying how often you will use the tool and the hardness of the material you are drilling. Once you have that figured out, any of the top picks on our list will serve you well for years to come. Grab your favorite tool today and get started on that renovation project you’ve been dreaming about!
