Drills are the workhorses of the tool world. They handle almost anything you throw at them, but sometimes a standard rotary drill just spins its wheels when hitting masonry or concrete. That is where the hammer drill steps in.
If your current drill isn’t making a dent, you need the percussive punching power of a hammer drill to break through hard materials. These tools are essential for masons, construction pros, and DIYers tackling renovation projects. However, the difference between a standard hammer drill and a rotary hammer can be confusing.
To help you choose the right tool, we reviewed ten of the top-rated models on the market. We evaluated these drills based on impact energy, torque, comfort, and whether they offer the freedom of cordless power or the reliability of a cord.
- Synchronized BPM and RPM
- Torque-limiting clutch
- Quickly penetrates rock
- Leading brand
- Two-step vibration control
- Three-speed trigger
- Cordless
- Charge lasts 57% longer than average
- Made in the USA
- D-shaped handle
- Value for money
- Tool-free bit replacement
- Multi-position handle
- Suitable for DIYers
- Leading brand
- For heavy duty use
- Four drilling modes
- 360-degree handle
- Weighs just 5.5 pounds
- Drills almost any material
- Converts into drill driver
- Brushless motor
- Variable speed control
- Cordless
- 9-amp motor
- Integral clutch
- 5-year warranty
What Is a Hammer Drill Used For?
A hammer drill, often called a percussion drill, is designed specifically for drilling into hard masonry materials like concrete, stone, mortar, and brick. A standard rotary drill cuts into materials by spinning the bit. While this works for wood or metal, it isn’t enough for stone.
Hammer drills combine that spinning motion with a rapid hammering action. Inside the tool, two ribbed metal discs click in and out against each other, creating a physical impact that pulverizes the material while the bit scoops out the debris.
Should I Buy a Corded or Cordless Hammer Drill?
The choice between corded and cordless comes down to mobility versus raw, uninterrupted power.
Cordless hammer drills offer incredible freedom. You can climb ladders, work on roofs, or move around a large job site without hunting for an outlet. They are perfect for construction sites where power hasn’t been hooked up yet. However, they rely on battery life. Heavy drilling drains batteries fast, so you will need backups on hand.
Corded hammer drills provide consistent torque and never die in the middle of a hole. They are generally lighter because they don’t carry a heavy battery pack. If you work primarily in a shop or near a garage outlet, a corded model often gives you more power for your money. The downside is the tether; you are always limited by the length of your extension cord.
How to Choose
The market is flooded with options ranging from light-duty DIY tools to concrete-crushing beasts. To find the right one, you need to look at how the tool delivers power and how comfortable it is to hold.
Power Source and Motor Type
Beyond just corded vs. cordless, you should consider the motor type. Brushless motors (found in higher-end cordless models) run cooler, last longer, and use battery energy more efficiently than brushed motors.
If you go corded, look at the amperage. A 7-amp motor is fine for light block work, but for poured concrete, you will want a 10-amp motor or higher.
Drilling Power (BPM and RPM)
Power is measured in two ways. RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) is how fast the bit spins. BPM (Blows Per Minute) is how fast the hammer mechanism strikes. High BPM helps shatter brittle material faster.
Power And Weight
Comfort and Ergonomics
Hammer drilling creates a lot of vibration. If the tool doesn’t absorb that shock, your hands and arms will. Look for a drill with a decoupled handle or ample rubber over-molding. An adjustable auxiliary handle (side handle) is practically mandatory for safety and stability when drilling large holes.
Variable Speed Trigger
You rarely want to go full throttle immediately. A variable speed trigger lets you start the hole slowly to prevent the bit from “walking” across the surface. Once the bit has bitten into the concrete, you can squeeze the trigger fully to drive it home.
Depth Gauges
Many hammer drills come with a depth rod that attaches to the side handle. This simple metal or plastic rod stops you from drilling too deep. It is incredibly useful when you need to drill multiple holes for anchors and need them all to be the exact same depth.
Chuck Type
This is a critical distinction.
- Standard Keyless/Keyed Chuck: Accepts smooth-shank bits. Common on multipurpose hammer drills.
- SDS-Plus Chuck: Uses slotted bits that slide back and forth. This is found on “Rotary Hammers” and heavy-duty hammer drills. It offers superior holding power and impact transfer but requires special bits.
Product Reviews
We have tested a mix of standard hammer drills and heavy-duty rotary hammers to cover every user, from the casual homeowner hanging shelves to the pro anchoring into foundations. Here are the best models available right now.
Makita HR2475 Rotary Hammer Drill
Best Hammer Drill for Rock
Makita is a legend in the concrete world, and the HR2475 shows why. This is technically a rotary hammer, meaning it uses a piston mechanism rather than mechanical plates to create impact. This makes it significantly more powerful than a standard hammer drill for tough jobs like rock or cured concrete.
It features a torque-limiting clutch that disengages the gears if your bit jams. This is a huge safety feature that prevents the drill from wrenching your wrist. With three modes, rotation only, hammering with rotation, and hammering only, it is a versatile beast that can even do light chipping work.
What We Like
Fast Drilling Speed
The synchronized RPM and BPM allow for efficient energy transfer. It drills through concrete up to twice as fast as similar competitors, saving you time on the job site.
Safety Clutch
Drilling into concrete often means hitting rebar or hard aggregate. If the bit binds, the clutch stops the gear rotation instantly, protecting both the motor and your arm.
True Rotary Hammer Power
Because this uses an SDS-Plus system, it hits harder than standard multipurpose drills. It is the go-to choice for drilling into natural rock or old, hard concrete.
What We Don't Like
Requires SDS Bits
You cannot use standard smooth-shank drill bits in this tool. You must buy SDS-Plus bits, which are slightly more expensive but much more secure.
Overkill for Wood
While it has a “rotation only” mode, this tool is heavy and aggressive. It isn’t the right choice for delicate woodworking or hanging picture frames on drywall.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10.7 pounds |
| BPM | 4,500 |
| RPM | 1,100 |
| Amps | 7 amps |
| Cost | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC
Best Hammer Drill for Tile
If you plan on removing tiles or doing extended drilling, the Bosch RH328VC is a top-tier choice. It is an SDS rotary hammer designed with a focus on vibration control. The 8-amp motor delivers plenty of grunt (2.6 ft-lbs of impact energy), but the real selling point is the counter-balance system that dampens the kickback.
It sits comfortably in the hand with a balanced center of gravity, making it easier to maneuver horizontally or overhead. The variable speed dial allows you to dial back the power for fragile jobs, like popping off tiles without destroying the wall behind them.
What We Like
Vibration Control
Bosch uses a two-step system to reduce vibration at the handle. This means you can work longer hours with less fatigue and lower risk of injury.
Excellent Balance
Unlike some front-heavy drills, this Bosch is balanced well. It allows for precision work, which is essential when you are trying to chip tile or chisel in a specific spot.
Three Operating Modes
You can switch between rotary hammer, rotation only, and hammer only. The “hammer only” mode turns this into a light jackhammer for scaling and chiseling.
What We Don't Like
Premium Price
Bosch tools command a higher price tag. This is an investment tool for serious DIYers or pros, not a budget buy for a one-time job.
Bulky for Tight Spaces
While ergonomic, the body is somewhat bulky compared to a standard pistol-grip hammer drill. It might be tight fitting between studs.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| BPM | 4,000 |
| RPM | 900 |
| Amps | 8 amps |
| Cost | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill
Best Cordless Hammer Drill
The DeWALT 20V XR is the gold standard for general contractors and homeowners who want one drill to do it all. It is compact, runs on DeWALT’s ubiquitous 20V battery platform, and packs a surprising punch for its size.
It features a high-efficiency brushless motor that delivers up to 38,250 BPM. While it won’t hit as hard as the SDS rotary hammers listed above, it is far more versatile. You can use it to frame a deck, hang drywall, and then switch to hammer mode to anchor the deck ledger into brick.
What We Like
Go-Anywhere Utility
Without a cord to hold you back, this drill is ready for roof work, fence building, or backyard projects.
Brushless Efficiency
The brushless motor extends battery runtime significantly, up to 57% longer than brushed models. You get more holes per charge and a motor that runs cooler.
LED Work Light
It includes a bright, 3-mode LED light with a spotlight feature. This is incredibly helpful when working in basements or corners where lighting is poor.
What We Don't Like
Bare Tool
This particular listing is often for the tool only. You will need to buy the battery and charger separately if you don’t already own DeWALT 20V tools.
Not for Heavy Concrete
This is a standard hammer drill, not a rotary hammer. It is perfect for brick and mortar, but it will struggle with large holes in poured concrete foundations.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4 pounds (excluding battery pack) |
| BPM | 38,250 |
| RPM | 2,250 |
| Volts | 20 |
| Cost | $$ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Our Ratings
Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme
Best Hammer Drill for Concrete
The Bosch “Bulldog” is arguably the most recognizable rotary hammer on job sites across the world. It strikes the perfect balance between power, weight, and price. With an SDS-plus chuck and an 8-amp motor, it delivers hard-hitting performance for drilling anchors and through-holes in concrete.
The variable-speed trigger is highly responsive, allowing for accurate bit starting. It also features a unique “Vario-Lock” positioning system that lets you rotate a chisel bit into 36 different positions, optimizing your working angle.
What We Like
Ergonomic D-Handle
The D-handle design allows for excellent downward pressure and control, especially when drilling downward into a slab.
Vario-Lock System
Being able to lock your chisel at any angle is a game-changer for demolition work. You don’t have to contort your body to get the right leverage.
Reliable Workhorse
This tool is known for its longevity. It is built to take abuse on construction sites, making it a reliable choice for homeowners who want a tool that lasts a lifetime.
What We Don't Like
Weight
At over 10 pounds, it is hefty. While manageable for floor work, holding it horizontally for wall anchors can get tiring after a few dozen holes.
SDS Bits Only
Like other rotary hammers, this requires SDS-plus bits. You cannot use your standard round-shank twist bits here.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10.4 pounds |
| BPM | 5,800 |
| RPM | 1,300 |
| Amps | 8 |
| Cost | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
DeWALT 7.8-Amp DW511 Hammer Drill
Best Lightweight Hammer Drill
For homeowners who need a drill that can handle wood, metal, and the occasional masonry job, the DeWALT DW511 is a classic choice. It is a traditional pistol-grip hammer drill, meaning it uses a standard keyed chuck (or keyless, depending on the variant) and takes regular drill bits.
Weighing just 4.3 pounds, it is incredibly light compared to the rotary hammers on this list. The 7.8-amp motor is surprisingly capable, delivering up to 46,000 BPM. It is the perfect tool for mounting TV brackets into brick fireplaces or installing shelves on concrete block walls.
What We Like
360-Degree Side Handle
The side handle can be clamped at any angle, giving you leverage in tight corners or awkward spaces.
Great Value
This offers pro-level brand reliability at a price point accessible to most DIYers. It bridges the gap between cheap consumer tools and expensive heavy-duty gear.
Dual Mode
The simple switch allows you to turn off the hammer action instantly, making it a highly effective high-speed drill for wood and steel.
What We Don't Like
Tethered by Cord
You lose the convenience of battery power. You will need an extension cord for outdoor work.
Not for Cured Concrete
While it handles brick and block easily, the mechanical cam impact system struggles with very hard, cured concrete compared to an SDS rotary hammer.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.3 pounds |
| BPM | 46,000 |
| RPM | 2,700 |
| Amps | 7.8 |
| Cost | $ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Our Ratings
Eneacro Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill
Best Hammer Drill With Vibration Control
Eneacro might not have the brand recognition of DeWALT or Makita, but this heavy-duty rotary hammer offers massive power for the price. It boasts a 13-amp motor, which is significantly more powerful than many competitors in its class.
It is designed with user safety in mind, featuring a safety clutch and a dedicated vibration control system in the handle. With four functions, drill, hammer, chisel, and position adjustment, it is a versatile demolition and construction tool ideal for breaking up small concrete pads or removing tiles.
What We Like
High Power Output
The 13-amp motor delivers impressive impact energy. If you have a tough demolition job on a budget, this tool hits hard.
Effective Heat Dissipation
The design includes a heat-resistant copper motor and bottom exhaust vents, which help keep the tool cool during extended use, prolonging its life.
Complete Kit
Unlike many big brands that sell the bare tool, Eneacro often includes a case, grease, and a few SDS bits to get you started immediately.
What We Don't Like
Chuck Quality
Some users report the SDS chuck can be a bit stiff or gritty when changing bits compared to premium brands.
Bulk and Weight
This is a large tool. It is excellent for floor work or low wall work, but it is heavy to lift for overhead drilling.
Product Specs
| Weight | 18.5 pounds |
| BPM | 4200 |
| RPM | 820 |
| Amps | 13 |
| Cost | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Skil 6448-04 7.0 Amp Hammer Drill
Best Corded Hammer Drill
Skil is best known for inventing the circular saw, but their consumer-grade drills are excellent for light-duty homeowners. The 6448-04 is a 7.0-amp corded hammer drill that is perfect for the occasional DIY project.
It uses a standard 1/2-inch keyed chuck, so it works with all your existing drill bits. If you need to drill a few holes into a brick patio or mount a hose reel to a stucco wall, this tool gets the job done without breaking the bank.
What We Like
Affordable Entry Point
This is one of the most budget-friendly options available that still carries a reputable brand name. It’s perfect for the “once a year” user.
Variable Speed Trigger
Despite the low price, it includes a variable speed trigger which is crucial for starting holes accurately in masonry without the bit skating away.
What We Don't Like
Consumer Grade Build
The housing and components are designed for intermittent DIY use, not daily job site abuse. It isn’t as rugged as the pro models.
Limited Power
With 7 amps, it is on the lower end of the power spectrum. It will struggle with large diameter holes in concrete.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| BPM | 51,000 |
| RPM | 3,000 |
| Amps | 7 |
| Cost | $ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Makita XPH12Z 18V Brushless Cordless Drill
Best Brushless Motor Hammer Drill
The Makita XPH12Z is a compact cordless hammer drill that prioritizes efficiency. It utilizes a brushless motor, which runs cooler and optimizes battery usage. This means you can drive more screws and drill more holes on a single charge compared to older models.
It is part of Makita’s massive 18V LXT ecosystem, so if you already own Makita tools, this is a no-brainer. It delivers 530 in-lbs of torque, making it a solid all-around performer for carpentry and light masonry work.
What We Like
Brushless Motor Technology
The electronically controlled motor matches torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application. This prevents the tool from overheating and extends battery life by up to 50%.
Compact Design
It is short from front to back, allowing you to fit into tight spaces, like between cabinets or joists, where larger hammer drills can’t go.
Dual LEDs
The built-in dual LED lights illuminate the work area effectively, eliminating shadows on the drilling point.
What We Don't Like
Battery Cost
As with most pro-grade cordless tools, the batteries and chargers are sold separately. If you are new to Makita, the initial buy-in price is higher.
Not for Demolition
This is a compact hammer driver-drill. It is great for drilling holes, but it does not have a “hammer only” chipping mode.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.2 pounds |
| BPM | 30,000 |
| RPM | 2,000 |
| Volts | 18 |
| Cost | $$$ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Our Ratings
Black+Decker Hammer Drill 6.5 Amps DR670
Best Hammer Drill for Brick
Black+Decker is synonymous with home DIY. The DR670 is a 6.5-amp hammer drill designed specifically for basic household tasks. It is small, easy to handle, and uncomplicated.
It features a keyless chuck, which is a nice convenience feature at this price point, allowing you to swap bits by hand without hunting for a chuck key. While it won’t drill deep into foundations, it is perfectly capable of drilling into brick for hanging planters, shutters, or mailboxes.
What We Like
Very Affordable
This is an excellent choice for new homeowners who need a drill for occasional repairs but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars.
Keyless Chuck
The single-sleeve keyless chuck makes bit changes fast and tool-free. It tightens down securely for most standard drilling tasks.
What We Don't Like
No Carrying Case
It typically ships in a cardboard box, so you will need to buy a separate toolbox or bag to keep it and your bits organized.
Lower Amperage
At 6.5 amps, it is the least powerful motor on this list. It requires patience when drilling into harder materials.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.39 pounds |
| BPM | Not specified |
| RPM | 2,800 |
| Amps | 6 |
| Cost | $ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Milwaukee 5380-21 9-Amp Heavy-Duty Hammer Drill
Best Heavy-Duty Hammer Drill
The Milwaukee 5380-21 sits in the “heavy-duty” category of pistol-grip hammer drills. It keeps the familiar shape of a standard drill but stuffs a massive 9-amp motor inside. This gives you 56,000 BPM of impact power without switching to the bulkier SDS style.
It features a 2-speed gearbox, allowing you to choose between high speed for small holes or high torque for large holes. Milwaukee builds tools for the job site, and the all-metal gear case ensures this drill can survive drops and rough handling.
What We Like
9-Amp Motor
This is one of the most powerful pistol-grip hammer drills available. It powers through concrete block and brick much faster than 7-amp models.
Durability
With a metal gear housing and a rugged design, this tool dissipates heat well and stands up to professional daily use.
Warranty
Milwaukee backs this tool with a 5-year warranty, which is one of the best in the industry, giving you peace of mind.
What We Don't Like
Heavy
Weighing in around 12 pounds with the kit, it is a heavy tool to lug around. It requires two hands to operate safely.
Pricey for a Pistol Grip
It is expensive for a non-SDS drill. For a similar price, you could buy a decent rotary hammer, so you have to really prefer the pistol-grip style to choose this one.
Product Specs
| Weight | 12.02 pounds |
| BPM | 56,000 |
| RPM | 3,500 |
| Amps | 9 |
| Cost | $$$ |
| Warranty | 5-year |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | BPM | RPM | Amps | Warranty |
| Makita HR2475 Rotary Drill | Rock | 10.7 lbs | 4,500 | 1,100 | 7 | 1-year |
| Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC | Tile | 7.7 lbs | 4,000 | 900 | 8 | 1-year |
| DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill | Cordless Drill | 4 lbs | 38,250 | 2,250 | 20 | 3-year limited |
| Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme | Concrete | 10.4 lbs | 5,800 | 1,300 | 8 | 1-year |
| DeWALT 7.8-Amp DW511 Drill | Lightweight | 4.3 lbs | 46,000 | 2,700 | 8 | 3-year limited |
| Eneacro Heavy Duty Rotary | With Vibration Control | 18.5 lbs | 4200 | 820 | 13 | 2-year |
| Skil 6448-04 7.0 Amp Hammer Drill | Corded Drill | 5.5 lbs | 51,000 | 3,000 | 7 | 1-year |
| Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Drill | Brushless Motor | 4.2 lbs | 30,000 | 2,000 | 18 | 3-year limited |
| Black+Decker DR670 | Brick | 4.39 lbs | N/A | 2,800 | 6 | 2-year |
| Milwaukee 5380-21 9-Amp | Heavy-Duty | 12.02 lbs | 56,000 | 3,500 | 9 | 5-years |
How Does a Hammer Drill Work?
Hammer drills rely on a mechanism called percussive action. Imagine a drummer hitting a drumroll; that is essentially what is happening inside the drill. Two cam plates with ridges spin against each other. As the ridges ride up and down, they push the chuck forward and backward rapidly. This hammering action pulverizes the concrete at the tip of the drill bit, while the rotation scoops the dust out of the hole.
FAQs
Can I Use a Hammer Drill as a Standard Drill?
Yes. Almost all hammer drills have a mode selector switch. You can turn the hammer function off and use it as a regular rotary drill for wood, plastic, or metal. However, standard hammer drills are often heavier and bulkier than regular drills, so they might be tiring for delicate work.
Hammer Drill Vs. Rotary Hammer: What Is the Difference?
The main difference is the mechanism and power. A standard Hammer Drill uses mechanical cam plates to vibrate the bit. It is great for brick, mortar, and block, but struggles with poured concrete. It usually takes standard round-shank bits.
A Rotary Hammer (often called an SDS drill) uses a piston driven by a crankshaft to create air pressure that slams the bit forward. It hits much harder and is designed for drilling large holes in reinforced concrete. It uses special SDS bits that lock into the chuck.
What Is the Hammer Drill Setting Used For?
The hammer icon on your drill collar indicates the mode for drilling into masonry. You should use this setting for concrete, brick, stone, cinder block, and mortar. Do not use this setting for wood, metal, or glass, as the pounding action will split the wood or shatter the material.
Is It Worth Getting a Hammer Drill?
If you own a home with brick walls, a stone foundation, or a concrete patio, a hammer drill is absolutely worth it. Trying to drill a hole in masonry with a regular drill can burn out the motor and ruin the bit. A hammer drill does the work in seconds. If you only drill into drywall and wood studs, a regular drill is sufficient.
What Is the Best Hammer Drill for Concrete?
For heavy concrete work, the Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme is a top contender. Its SDS-plus rotary hammer mechanism delivers the impact energy needed to punch through cured concrete and aggregate much faster than standard pistol-grip hammer drills.
What Is Stronger Than a Hammer Drill?
A Rotary Hammer is the next step up in power. While a hammer drill vibrates to break material, a rotary hammer uses a pneumatic piston to deliver a true “hammer blow.” For even heavier tasks like breaking up pavement, you would step up to a Demolition Hammer or a Jackhammer, which only hammer and do not rotate.
What Hammer Drill Brand Is Most Reliable?
Makita, DeWALT, Bosch, and Milwaukee are generally considered the “Big Four” of reliable power tools. For concrete specifically, Bosch and Hilti (a premium commercial brand) are often cited by professionals as the leaders in rotary hammer technology.
Do I Need Special Bits for a Hammer Drill?
Yes. You must use masonry bits, which usually have a carbide tip designed to withstand the pounding action. If you use a regular wood or metal bit, the hammer action will blunt the tip almost instantly. If you have an SDS Rotary Hammer, you need specific SDS bits that have slots on the shank to fit the chuck.
