Finding the best hammer drill can feel like a daunting task when you are staring at a wall of tools at the hardware store. Whether you are trying to mount a television onto a brick wall or building a deck on a concrete slab, having the right tool makes the difference between a five-minute job and an all-afternoon headache. Understanding the difference between a hammer drill and regular drill is the first step to making a smart purchase, as these powerhouses combine standard rotation with a rapid “hammering” action to pulverize masonry. In this guide, we have rounded up the top performers on the market to help you pick the perfect match for your toolbox.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 8 Best Hammer Drill Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. CRAFTSMAN V20 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit with Two Batteries, Charger, and Carrying Case CMCD711C2
The Craftsman V20 hammer drill is a fantastic entry point for anyone needing reliable power without a professional price tag. This complete kit includes everything you need to start drilling into concrete and wood immediately.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-performance motor producing 280 unit watts out for heavy-duty tasks
✓ 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck for superior bit retention during high-vibration work
✓ Dual speed gearbox with settings of 0-350 and 0-1,500 RPM for precision
✓ Part of the V20 cordless system allowing battery interchangeability with other tools
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit because it provides excellent value for homeowners. The inclusion of two batteries ensures you won’t have to stop mid-project to wait for a charge.
Best For
General DIY projects, mounting shelves on masonry, and home maintenance tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with two batteries included
- Comfortable ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue
- LED light helps in dark corners or basements
- Ratcheting chuck feels secure and durable
Cons:
- Heavier than some ultra-compact models
- Battery charge time could be faster
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was surprised at how much power this thing has for the price. I used it to mount several anchors in my concrete garage floor and it didn’t hesitate once. The kit bag is a nice bonus too.” – Mark T.
Customer Review: “Reliable and sturdy. I’ve used it for both regular drilling and hammer mode. It’s a great all-around tool for a homeowner who doesn’t want to spend a fortune on pro gear.” – Sarah L.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Atomic Compact Series Brushless 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill, Tool Only DCD799B
The DEWALT Atomic series is designed for users who need maximum power in the smallest footprint possible. If you frequently find yourself working in tight cabinets or crawlspaces, this tool is your best friend. For those who don’t need the hammer function, we also reviewed the best cordless drill options for simpler tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Ultra-compact length of only 6.49 inches to fit into restricted spaces
✓ Brushless motor technology for longer runtime and motor life
✓ Up to 1,650 RPM and increased power output compared to previous compact models
✓ Durable 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck providing excellent grip on bits
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DCD799B because it balances ergonomics with performance. It is incredibly light, which makes it the perfect tool for overhead work or long projects where arm fatigue is an issue.
Best For
Plumbers, electricians, and DIYers working in confined environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly short tool head fits anywhere
- Brushless motor is efficient and runs cool
- Ergonomic handle is among the best in the industry
- Great power-to-weight ratio
Cons:
- Does not include a battery or charger (bare tool)
- May struggle with very thick, aged concrete compared to full-sized models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a pretty versatile little drill. The hammer drill function does a great job at drilling into masonry and concrete, despite being a fairly small drill. It has a nice weight to it, which give a real feeling of quality and power.” – Amazon Reviewer
Customer Review: “It’s a great drill. powers through anything and gets the job done over and over. I love the handle ergonomics and it’s short stout to get into tight places.” – J. Garcia
3. SKIL 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill with Variable Speed Trigger and Side Handle HD182001
If you don’t mind a power cord, this SKIL model offers raw, consistent torque that cordless models often struggle to match at this price point. It is a workhorse designed for those tough weekend masonry projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Robust 7.5-Amp motor provides high torque for demanding projects
✓ 2-in-1 multi-function switch to toggle between drilling and hammer drilling
✓ Heavy-duty keyed chuck for maximum bit security during heavy vibration
✓ Included side assist handle for better control and safety
Why We Recommend It
This is our top budget pick because it never runs out of battery. For drilling multiple deep holes in concrete, the consistent power of a corded motor is a massive advantage.
Best For
Homeowners on a budget and anyone drilling deep into hard concrete or stone.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point for such high power
- Keyed chuck ensures bits never slip
- Side handle makes high-torque drilling safer
- No need to worry about battery life
Cons:
- Restricted by the length of the power cord
- Changing bits is slower with a keyed chuck
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I can say that when paired with premium masonry bits, this drill works great through concrete walls. For the price, it’s an amazing deal for residential renovation work.” – Contractor Pete
Customer Review: “Been a residential renovation contractor for 40+ years. This is a good tool and inexpensive. The set of drill bits included was a nice touch.” – Amazon Reviewer
4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 1/2-Inch 3-Speed Cordless Hammer Drill Driver, Bare Tool DCD996B
The DCD996B is a legendary tool in the DEWALT lineup. It is a high-performance machine that sits at the top of the XR line, offering three speeds to handle anything from delicate screws to heavy masonry drilling. Many users wonder about the difference between impact driver and hammer drill capabilities when seeing this tool’s power.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-power brushless motor delivering up to 75% more runtime than brushed motors
✓ Nitro-carburized metal ratcheting chuck with carbide inserts for extreme grip
✓ 3-mode LED light including a spotlight mode for dark workspaces
✓ Heavy-duty 3-speed all-metal transmission for optimal speed-to-application matching
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DCD996B because it is built for the job site. It can withstand being dropped and pushed to its limits, making it a “buy it once” tool for most people.
Best For
Serious DIYers, general contractors, and heavy-duty masonry work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely powerful motor for large bits
- Spotlight LED mode is bright enough to replace a flashlight
- Nitro-carburized chuck is incredibly durable
- Three speed ranges offer great control
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky for overhead work
- Requires high-amp batteries (5Ah+) for best performance
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great for medium duty masonry jobs. If you want it for regular drilling, it is very powerful. I used to use a corded Makita, but this produces similar power without the cord.” – R. Miller
Customer Review: “I decided to go with what seems to be Dewalt’s top of the line 20V drill. The hammer option is fantastic for setting anchors in my basement wall.” – Amazon Customer
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless 1/2-Inch Compact Cordless Hammer Drill with 2-Speed Variable Settings DCD805B
The DCD805B is the next generation of DEWALT compact hammer drills. It offers a significant boost in power over previous compact models while actually shrinking in size, making it a modern marvel of tool engineering.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 40% more unit watts out compared to the DCD796 model
✓ Extremely compact 7-inch tool head length
✓ All-metal ratcheting chuck for high-end durability
✓ Pivoting LED with 3 modes to light up your work surface from different angles
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this model because it hits the “sweet spot” for most users. It has enough power for almost any home project but is small enough that you won’t get tired of carrying it around all day.
Best For
Users who want a professional-grade tool that isn’t too heavy or bulky.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Surprising amount of power for a compact drill
- Pivoting LED is a game-changer for visibility
- Very comfortable in the hand
- Metal chuck is high quality
Cons:
- Can get warm under very heavy, sustained use
- Only 2 speeds compared to 3 on the larger XR models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I upgraded from an older brushed model and the difference is night and day. The shorter head makes it so much easier to use inside cabinets.” – Dave H.
Customer Review: “This is my go-to drill now. It’s light but still punches through brick with ease. The light on the base is actually useful.” – Karen S.
6. DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/2-Inch High Performance Cordless Hammer Drill, Bare Tool Only DCD1007B
For those who need the absolute most power DEWALT offers in a 20V platform, the DCD1007B is the answer. This is a high-performance beast built for the most demanding applications, featuring advanced safety tech to protect the user.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Anti-rotation system that shuts the tool down during a bind-up to prevent wrist injuries
✓ The shortest DEWALT premium 3-speed drill for better maneuverability
✓ All-metal transmission and nitro-carburized chuck for extreme longevity
✓ High-performance motor designed for the largest masonry bits
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this drill specifically for safety and power. The anti-rotation system is a vital feature when drilling large holes in concrete where the bit might catch on rebar.
Best For
Commercial construction and users drilling large-diameter holes in tough materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Cons:
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have a good DeWalt drill, but this Max XR is a GREAT drill! It is heavier, but it will do HEAVY work. The anti-rotation feature is a lifesaver when the bit snags.” – Amazon Reviewer
Customer Review: “Pretty hefty. I love that it feels balanced in my hands. I used it to drill through brick and it went through like butter.” – T. Jenkins
7. Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Variable Speed Corded Hammer Drill with Included 6-Piece Drill Bit Set HAHD075
The Hammerhead corded drill is a straightforward, no-nonsense tool that focuses on power and affordability. It includes a basic bit set, making it a “grab and go” option for immediate projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Powerful 7.5-Amp motor that doesn’t quit under load
✓ 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck for quick bit changes without tools
✓ Variable speed trigger allows for precise hole starts
✓ Dual mode selector for switching between standard and hammer drilling
Why We Recommend It
This is a solid recommendation for someone who only needs a hammer drill once or twice a year. It’s affordable enough to keep in the garage without feeling like you’ve over-invested.
Best For
Occasional DIYers and mounting items into brick or mortar.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Keyless chuck is very convenient
- Comes with a starter set of bits
- Very affordable price point
- Simple and easy to use
Cons:
- Keyless chuck may slip on very large masonry bits
- Cord can be an annoyance on ladders
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was really happy with this hammer-drill. I was leery because of the price, but it worked great for installing railing anchors in my concrete porch.” – B. Richards
Customer Review: “For a DIY guy, this is perfect. It has plenty of power and the variable speed is easy to control. Just don’t use the cheap bits for too long.” – Mike W.
8. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill-Driver Kit with Batteries and Multi-Voltage Charger
Milwaukee’s Fuel line is synonymous with heavy-duty performance. This kit is a premium choice for those who demand the absolute best in cordless technology, offering massive torque and unmatched durability.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ POWERSTATE brushless motor delivering up to 60% more power than competitors
✓ All-metal chuck with carbide teeth for maximum grip and durability
✓ REDLINK PLUS intelligence prevents damage from overloading or overheating
✓ Mechanical clutch for consistency across a wide range of fastener sizes
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit because it is the “gold standard” for cordless hammer drills. The batteries provide incredibly long runtimes, making it ideal for jobs away from a power outlet.
Best For
Professional tradespeople and DIYers who want the top-tier tool in the market.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best-in-class power and torque
- Carbide-tooth chuck stays sharp and grips tight
- Excellent battery management system
- Very fast drilling speeds in masonry
Cons:
- One of the most expensive options
- Batteries are heavy, adding to total weight
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 ceilings and it performed perfect.” – S. Miller
Customer Review: “I bought this to use for boring 1” holes into wood using an auger bit and it was through in seconds. It’s an absolute beast of a tool.” – Amazon Customer
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hammer Drill
Essential Factors We Consider
When shopping for the best hammer drill, the first thing to look at is the motor type. Brushless motors are generally superior as they are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than traditional brushed motors. You should also pay attention to the BPM (Blows Per Minute) rating; a higher BPM usually translates to faster drilling in hard materials like concrete. Chuck quality is another big one—metal ratcheting chucks are preferred over plastic ones for heavy hammer work because they won’t loosen or crack under vibration.
Budget Planning
Your budget will largely be determined by how often you use the tool. If you are a professional, investing in a high-end kit like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel or DEWALT XR series is a no-brainer because they withstand daily abuse. However, for most home users, a mid-range model like the Craftsman V20 or a corded SKIL model offers plenty of power for occasional projects at a much lower cost. Remember to factor in the cost of batteries if you are buying a “tool only” model.
Final Thoughts
The right hammer drill isn’t just about raw power; it’s about finding the tool that fits your specific needs. If you work in tight spots, a compact model like the DEWALT Atomic is king. If you are drilling 50 holes in a foundation, a corded powerhouse is the way to go. No matter which you choose, always pair your drill with high-quality masonry bits, as a cheap bit can make even the best drill look bad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a hammer drill for regular wood and metal?
A: Yes! Most hammer drills have a switch that allows you to turn off the hammering action, turning it into a high-powered standard drill for wood and metal tasks.
Q: Do I need special drill bits for a hammer drill?
A: Yes, you must use masonry bits with a carbide tip when in hammer mode. Using standard wood or metal bits in hammer mode will destroy the bit in seconds.
Q: What is the difference between a hammer drill and an SDS drill?
A: A standard hammer drill is great for small to medium holes in brick or concrete. An SDS drill (rotary hammer) is a much larger tool designed for heavy-duty demolition and very large holes in solid concrete.
Q: Why is my hammer drill smoking?
A: This usually happens if you are pushing too hard or using a dull bit. Let the tool do the work and the hammering action will pulverize the material. If you force it, the motor will overheat.
Choosing the right hammer drill doesn’t have to be a headache. By focusing on your specific projects—whether they are light home repairs or heavy construction—you can find a tool that will last for years. Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Click on your favorite pick above to see the latest deals on Amazon!
