Our Top Picks

- For heavy duty use
- Four drilling modes
- 360-degree handle

- 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

- Brushless motor
- Variable speed control
- Cordless

- SDS-Plus chuck
- Four drilling modes
- Safety clutch

- Includes 6 bits
- Variable speed with lock-on
- Keyless metal chuck

- Multi-position handle
- Suitable for DIYers
- Leading brand

- Built-in depth gauge
- 12 speed settings
- 360-degree handle
Our Review Criteria: The split between a true SDS-Plus rotary hammer and a cam-style hammer drill matters more than any spec, because recommending the wrong category for concrete is the most common mistake in this space. We separated the two first, then compared impact energy in joules, blows per minute, motor amperage or battery voltage, chuck system, vibration control, and weight. Each tool’s manufacturer specifications were cross-checked against independent reviews and verified owner feedback rather than the listing alone. We confirm every recommended model is still in production and available, and we swap anything discontinued for a buyable equivalent in the same role.
A standard drill handles wood and metal well, but it stalls the moment the bit meets concrete, brick, or stone. The best hammer drills add a rapid pounding action to the spin, so the bit chips its way through masonry instead of burning out against it. That extra mechanism is the whole reason this tool category exists.
The tricky part is that two very different tools share the name. A standard hammer drill uses mechanical cam plates and takes regular round-shank bits, which is plenty for brick, mortar, and block. A rotary hammer (an SDS-Plus tool) uses a pneumatic piston that hits far harder, so it is the one you want for poured or cured concrete. Buying the wrong one means either a stalled bit or paying for power you never use.
We sorted through the current lineup and picked ten models that cover every job, from hanging a TV bracket on a brick wall to anchoring a deck ledger into a foundation. Each pick is judged on impact energy, motor power, vibration control, chuck type, and whether corded reliability or cordless freedom fits the work better. We also confirmed each one is still in production and swapped out anything that had been discontinued.
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 give you real freedom of movement. 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 Best Hammer Drill
The market runs from light-duty DIY tools to heavy concrete-crushing machines. To find the right one, you need to look at how the tool delivers power and how comfortable it is to hold.
Product Reviews
Our lineup mixes standard cam-style hammer drills with true SDS-Plus rotary hammers, cordless and corded, so there is a match whether you are hanging shelves or anchoring into a foundation. Every pick below was checked for current availability, and any discontinued model was swapped for a buyable equivalent in the same role.
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 runs a 13-amp motor, which is well above most 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. Four modes (drill, hammer, chisel, and a position-lock for the chisel) let it double as a light demolition tool for breaking up small concrete pads or lifting tile.
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 | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC
Best Hammer Drill for Tile
If you plan on removing tiles or doing extended drilling, the Bosch RH328VC is a top-tier choice. It is an SDS rotary hammer designed with a focus on vibration control. The 8-amp motor delivers plenty of grunt (2.6 ft-lbs of impact energy), but the real selling point is the counter-balance system that dampens the kickback.
It sits comfortably in the hand with a balanced center of gravity, making it easier to maneuver horizontally or overhead. The variable speed dial allows you to dial back the power for fragile jobs, like popping off tiles without destroying the wall behind them.
What We Like
Vibration Control
Bosch uses a two-step system to reduce vibration at the handle. This means you can work longer hours with less fatigue and lower risk of injury.
Excellent Balance
Unlike some front-heavy drills, this Bosch is balanced well. It allows for precision work, which is essential when you are trying to chip tile or chisel in a specific spot.
Three Operating Modes
You can switch between rotary hammer, rotation only, and hammer only. The “hammer only” mode turns this into a light jackhammer for scaling and chiseling.
What We Don't Like
Premium Price
Bosch tools command a higher price tag. This is an investment tool for serious DIYers or pros, not a budget buy for a one-time job.
Bulky for Tight Spaces
While ergonomic, the body is somewhat bulky compared to a standard pistol-grip hammer drill. It might be tight fitting between studs.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
|---|---|
| BPM | 4,000 |
| RPM | 900 |
| Amps | 8 amps |
| Cost | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
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 with a spotlight setting, which helps a lot in basements or corners where the 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 | $$ |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme
Best Hammer Drill for Concrete
The Bosch “Bulldog” is arguably the most recognizable rotary hammer on job sites across the world. It strikes the perfect balance between power, weight, and price. With an SDS-plus chuck and an 8-amp motor, it delivers hard-hitting performance for drilling anchors and through-holes in concrete.
The variable-speed trigger is highly responsive, allowing for accurate bit starting. It also features a unique “Vario-Lock” positioning system that lets you rotate a chisel bit into 36 different positions, optimizing your working angle.
What We Like
Ergonomic D-Handle
The D-handle design allows for excellent downward pressure and control, especially when drilling downward into a slab.
Vario-Lock System
Being able to lock your chisel at any angle saves real effort on demolition work, since you can set the angle to the wall instead of contorting your body to reach it.
Reliable Workhorse
This tool is known for its longevity. It is built to take abuse on construction sites, making it a reliable choice for homeowners who want a tool that lasts a lifetime.
What We Don't Like
Weight
At over 10 pounds, it is hefty. While manageable for floor work, holding it horizontally for wall anchors can get tiring after a few dozen holes.
SDS Bits Only
Like other rotary hammers, this requires SDS-plus bits. You cannot use your standard round-shank twist bits here.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10.4 pounds |
|---|---|
| BPM | 5,800 |
| RPM | 1,300 |
| Amps | 8 |
| Cost | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
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 |
Deshuo 1-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
Best Budget Rotary Hammer
True rotary hammers usually carry a premium brand and a premium tag, so the Deshuo is worth a look if you need SDS-Plus piston power without paying name-brand money. Despite weighing only about 7.2 pounds, the 9-amp motor pushes out 5,300 BPM and roughly 3 joules of impact energy, which is enough to chew through concrete, brick, and masonry rather than just rattling the surface.
It is built around a four-mode selector: rotation only, rotary hammer, hammer only, and a Vario-lock that locks a chisel at a fixed angle. That makes it a capable drill-and-light-demolition tool for a homeowner who has a one-off concrete project and does not want to rent. It will not match the lifespan of a Bosch or Makita on daily job-site abuse, but for occasional use the value is hard to argue with.
What We Like
Genuine SDS-Plus Impact
This is a real pneumatic rotary hammer, not a cam-style hammer drill, so it transfers far more energy into cured concrete and rock than a pistol-grip model of similar price.
Light for the Class
At around 7.2 pounds it is one of the lighter SDS tools here, which makes overhead anchoring and extended drilling much easier on your arms.
Safety Clutch and Vibration Control
A built-in clutch disengages if the bit binds on rebar or aggregate, and the dampened handle takes the edge off the vibration during longer sessions.
What We Don't Like
Off-Brand Longevity
Independent reviews peg this as a value buy for light or intermittent use, not a tool built to survive years of daily contractor abuse. Treat it as a homeowner or backup tool.
SDS-Plus Bits Only
The chuck takes slotted SDS-Plus bits, not your standard round-shank twist bits, so you will need to buy masonry bits made for this system.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.19 pounds |
|---|---|
| BPM | 5,300 |
| RPM | 1,100 |
| Amps | 9 amps |
| Impact Energy | 3 joules |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Corded Hammer Drill
Best Corded Hammer Drill
If you want a no-fuss corded hammer drill that never dies mid-hole, the Hammerhead HAHD075 covers the basics well for a homeowner. Its 7.5-amp motor spins up to 3,000 RPM and delivers 48,000 IPM, and the two-mode switch lets you turn the hammer action off to use it as a plain rotary drill for wood and steel.
It ships with a six-piece bit set and uses a 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck, so you can swap bits by hand without hunting for a chuck key. The maker is clear that it is meant for standard concrete, masonry, wood, and metal, not reinforced concrete walls, which is a fair line to draw for a tool at this price. For mounting shelves, drilling a brick patio, or anchoring a hose reel to stucco, it is plenty.
What We Like
Bits Included
The kit comes with three metal and three concrete bits, so a first-time buyer can drill the first hole out of the box without a separate trip for accessories.
Variable Speed With Lock-On
The variable-speed trigger lets you start a hole slowly so the bit does not skate, and the lock-on button reduces finger fatigue during longer runs of holes.
Tool-Free Bit Changes
The keyless metal chuck grips standard round-shank bits and tightens by hand, which is unusual at this budget and saves the hassle of a lost chuck key.
What We Don't Like
Not for Reinforced Concrete
The manufacturer states this drill should not be used on reinforced concrete walls. It is a light-to-medium masonry tool, not a substitute for an SDS rotary hammer.
Homeowner-Grade Build
Reviewers consistently call it a strong value but not a heavy-duty contractor model. It suits occasional projects far better than daily job-site use.
Product Specs
| BPM | 48,000 |
|---|---|
| RPM | 3,000 |
| Amps | 7.5 |
| Chuck | 1/2-inch keyless |
| Included Bits | 6 pieces |
| Modes | Drill / hammer drill |
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.
At 4.3 pounds it is far lighter than 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 |
GALAX PRO 4.5-Amp Corded Hammer Drill
Best Hammer Drill for Brick
The GALAX PRO is built for the new homeowner whose biggest job is hanging planters, shutters, or a mailbox on a brick wall. Its 4.5-amp copper motor reaches 3,000 RPM, and the hammer mode handles brick, block, and standard concrete up to a 13mm (about 1/2-inch) bit. It will not punch large holes into a cured foundation, but for everyday masonry around the house it does the job.
What sets it apart at this price is the kit. It comes with a built-in depth gauge so repeat holes land at the same depth, a 360-degree side handle for leverage, five bits, and a 1/2-inch keyed metal chuck. A 12-position variable-speed dial lets you match the speed to the material, and the maker backs it with a two-year warranty, which is reassuring on a budget tool.
What We Like
Depth Gauge for Repeat Holes
The included depth rod stops the bit at a set depth, which matters when you are setting several wall anchors and need them all the same.
Twelve Speed Settings
A 12-stage speed dial gives finer control than a basic on-off trigger, so you can ease into brick without the bit walking across the surface.
Two-Year Warranty
A two-year warranty is generous for a budget corded drill and signals more confidence in the build than the price suggests.
What We Don't Like
Low Amperage
At 4.5 amps it is one of the least powerful tools here. It is fine for brick and block but slow and strained on dense cured concrete.
Keyed Chuck
The metal chuck is keyed rather than keyless, so you have to keep the chuck key handy for every bit change.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.2 pounds |
|---|---|
| RPM | 3,000 |
| Amps | 4.5 |
| Chuck | 1/2-inch keyed |
| Max Concrete Bit | 13 mm |
| Warranty | 2-year |
DCK 20V Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
Best Cordless Kit
Most cordless hammer drills on this list sell as bare tools, leaving you to buy a battery, charger, and bits separately. The DCK kit takes the opposite approach: it arrives with a 4.0Ah battery, a charger, a 12-inch storage bag, and a stack of drill and driver bits, so a first-time buyer can work the day it lands. That makes it the easiest pick here for someone who does not already own a cordless platform.
The brushless motor is rated at 531 in-lbs of torque and 36,000 IPM, with a two-speed gearbox (0-550 and 0-2,200 RPM) and a 22-stage clutch for driving screws. A 1/2-inch all-metal keyless chuck holds bits more securely than the plastic chucks common at this price. It handles brick, block, wood, and metal well; like any compact cordless hammer drill, it is not the tool for large holes in poured concrete.
What We Like
Everything in the Box
The battery, charger, bits, and bag are all included, so there is no separate platform buy-in. That is rare in this category and a real saving for a new DIYer.
Brushless Motor
The brushless motor runs cooler and wastes less energy than a brushed one, which stretches runtime per charge and reduces wear over the tool’s life.
All-Metal Chuck
The 1/2-inch metal keyless chuck resists the heat and slippage that plague plastic chucks during high-torque hammer drilling.
What We Don't Like
Loud Under Load
Reviewers note the motor gets noticeably loud at full power, so hearing protection is worth keeping nearby on bigger jobs.
Off-Brand Battery Platform
The battery fits DCK’s own line, not a major ecosystem, so you cannot share packs with DeWALT, Makita, or Milwaukee tools you may already own.
Product Specs
| Torque | 531 in-lbs |
|---|---|
| BPM | 36,000 |
| RPM | 0-550 / 0-2,200 |
| Volts | 20 |
| Battery | 4.0Ah included |
| Chuck | 1/2-inch all-metal |
| Product | Best | Weight | BPM | RPM | Amps | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eneacro Heavy Duty Rotary | With Vibration Control | 18.5 lbs | 4200 | 820 | 13 | 2-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 |
| Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Drill | Brushless Motor | 4.2 lbs | 30,000 | 2,000 | 18 | 3-year limited |
| Deshuo 1-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Budget Rotary Hammer | 7.19 lbs | 5,300 | 1,100 | 9 | 2-year |
| Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Hammer Drill | Corded Drill | N/A | 48,000 | 3,000 | 7.5 | 1-year |
| DeWALT 7.8-Amp DW511 Drill | Lightweight | 4.3 lbs | 46,000 | 2,700 | 8 | 3-year limited |
| GALAX PRO Corded Hammer Drill | Brick | 4.2 lbs | N/A | 3,000 | 4.5 | 2-year |
| DCK 20V Brushless Hammer Drill Kit | Cordless Kit | N/A | 36,000 | 2,200 | 20V | N/A |
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.










