10 best hammer drills for concrete [Review and Guide 2023]

A hammer drill is an essential tool for anyone who needs to drill into concrete wall or masonry. Whether you’re a homeowner doing weekend projects or a professional contractor, having the best hammer drills for concrete wall can make tough jobs much easier.

Concrete is extremely hard and brittle. Trying to drill into it with a regular drill usually doesn’t work very well. The hammering action of a hammer drill drives the bit into the concrete while simultaneously rotating it to grind away material. This pulverizing action allows you to drill clean holes in concrete for tasks like installing electrical boxes, running plumbing, hanging shelves, and anchoring wood framing.

Difference Between Hammer Drill And Rotary Hammer

A standard drill and a hammer drill may sound similar, but they are different tools. The main differences between them are:

Hammer Mechanism – A rotary hammer uses electromechanical impacts to drive the bit forward as it spins, while a hammer drill relies on a ratcheting hammer clutch that engages the masonry bit. This gives the rotary hammer more pounding force.
Power – Rotary hammers have much higher power, usually 800-1200 watts. Hammer drills range from 600-800 watts for corded and 18-36 volts for cordless.
Bit Motion – The bit on a rotary hammer moves in a pounding axial motion. A hammer drill’s bit spins only with occasional hammer blows when needed.
Drill Bit Types – Rotary hammers use specialized SDS, Spline shank bits or masonry bit. Hammer drills use standard hex shank drill bits.
Hole Size – Rotary hammers can drill holes up to 1-3/8″ in concrete. Hammer drills max out at around 1/2″ holes.
Scope of Use – Rotary hammers work well for heavy duty concrete drilling and chiseling. Hammer drills are good for light to medium concrete drilling as well as drilling wood, metal and other materials.

Read on to see our picks for the best heavy duty hammer drill for wall of concrete along with an overview of what to look for when choosing one.

What Type Of Drill Is Best For Concrete?

When you need to drill into concrete, using the right type of drill makes a big difference in how quickly and efficiently you can get the job done. Here are some tips on choosing the best drill for concrete:

Rotary Hammer Drill – This is the most powerful drill for concrete, use it when you have many large holes or deep holes to drill. The electromechanical impacts provide great percussion power. They can drill holes up to 1-3/8″.
Hammer Drill – A good middle ground option, hammer drills use a clutch to deliver rotary and hammer action together when needed. Best for small to medium holes up to 1/2″ in concrete. Also useful for drilling other materials.
Cordless Hammer Drill – Very portable and easy to use in different locations. Look for a 20V or higher lithium-ion model from a leading brand. Enough power for most small jobs drilling into concrete or other masonry.
Corded Hammer Drill – Can provide more sustained power and torque versus cordless. Good for drilling many holes or larger holes when portability is not required. Look for 750W+ motor power.
SDS Rotary Hammer Bit – This type of bit is essential to use with rotary and most hammer drills for concrete drilling. Provides faster penetration and more durability than standard hex bits. Carbide tip best for concrete.
Use a diamond core bit for very precise, clean holes in concrete. Ideal for plumbing or electrical conduit holes.

The Best Hammer Drill For Concrete and Wall

Out Top Pick: Bosch Bulldog Xtreme Rotary Hammer Power Drill

The Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme Rotary Drill is a heavy duty power tool designed and built for drilling into concrete and masonry. Weighing in at 17 pounds and measuring 17 inches long, this is a substantial drill with the power and durability to take on professional concrete drilling jobs.

This electric rotary hammer generates an impressive 1,100 watts and 8.0 amps of power from a high quality Bosch motor. All that power allows it to pound through concrete with 3 joules of impact energy delivered from the electro pneumatic hammering mechanism. It uses SDS-Plus spline drill bits and can drill holes up to 1-3/8 inches in diameter in concrete walls and floors.

key features that make this a top rotary hammer for concrete drilling include:

D-handle and vibration control system for better comfort and control when using the drill for extended periods
Variable speed trigger with reverse function lets you optimize bit speed for conditions
“Hammering Only” mode that disengages rotation for chiseling or breaking tasks
Sturdy metal gearbox and reinforced housing stand up to abusive job site conditions
8.5 foot power cord gives you a decent range of motion without unplugging

In comparison to lighter duty hammer drills, this professional grade rotary hammer really excels when you need to drill many holes or work overhead drilling into ceilings or other hard to reach spots. It simply has the power and impact energy to drill larger diameter holes that basic hammer drills can’t match.

Bosch Bulldog Xtreme Rotary Hammer Power Drill

The only real downside to the Bosch 11255VSR is that it must stay plugged in, reducing mobility versus cordless models. However, the trade off is that you get constant power without worrying about battery life or fade as you drill hole after hole.

Pros:

Powerful 1100W motor
3 Joules of impact energy
Dependable Bosch quality
Variable speed trigger
Can drill up to 1-3/8″ holes

Cons:

Heavy and bulky
Corded, not as portable
Expensive

Overall, this is an outstanding rotary hammer drill for any concrete drilling task. It has the reliability, performance and power to be the primary drill on residential or commercial job sites.

Best Cordless Hammer Drill : PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Hammer Drill

The PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Hammer Drill is a versatile cordless hammer drill that delivers ample power for most drilling tasks. This lightweight drill is a great choice for professionals or DIYers looking for an affordable cordless hammer drill.

Key features of the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Hammer Drill include:

20V lithium ion battery provides long runtime between charges
High-performance motor delivers 300 Unit Watts of power
2-speed gearbox for optimized drilling and fastening speed
Keyless chuck allows for quick and easy bit changes
Weighs only 3.5 lbs for reduced fatigue during use

This drill is designed for durability with its all-metal transmission and heavy duty construction. It can generate up to 48,000 beats per minute for its hammering action. The 2-speed transmission is optimized for drilling or driving/fastening tasks.

In testing, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX could drill holes up to 1/2” in concrete walls and floors. It has plenty of torque and impact energy for most general drilling applications in wood, plastic and light gauge metal too. The hammer function helps prevent bit walking when starting a hole.

Compared to high-end hammer drills, this affordable model does sacrifice some power and speed. The lower 300 UWO rating may require more battery recharges when drilling many holes. But for basic around-the-house tasks, it provides good value.

Pros:

Lightweight and comfortable
20V battery with long runtime
Affordable price
Suitable for most general drilling tasks

Cons:

Lower power rating than premium models
Not ideal for heavy duty concrete drilling

Overall, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Hammer Drill is a great choice for homeowners or Pros who need a rugged cordless hammer drill at a budget-friendly price point. It delivers ample drilling power in a lightweight and comfortable package.

Best Heavy Duty cordless Rotary Hammer : Makita XRH04Z Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill

The Makita XRH04Z is a 18V cordless rotary hammer drill that delivers corded power in a compact cordless design. It’s an excellent choice for contractors or construction workers who need portable concrete drilling performance.

Key features of this Makita hammer drill include:

Brushless motor provides 50% more power and runtime vs previous model
Two speed settings for drilling and hammer drilling applications
SDS-Plus chuck for fast bit changes without a key
Weighs only 7.05 lbs for reduced fatigue during use
Accepts 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries for longer runtime

Makita Rotary Hammer, accepts SDS-PLUS bits

This rotary hammer can generate impact energy up to 4.2 joules with Makita’s dual hammer mechanism. It uses an AC brushless motor optimized for rotary hammer tasks. The drill is versatile, with three modes for hammer drilling, drill driving, and chisel adjustment.

In testing, the Makita XRH04Z drilled 1” diameter holes into concrete with ease. It has plenty of power for overhead drilling or working in tight spaces thanks to the grip and balance. The dual LED lights illuminate the work area well.

The only downside is that optional LXT batteries add to the cost. But the performance is on par with corded rotary hammers.

Pros:

Brushless motor for more power
Lightweight at only 7.05 lbs
Accepts 18V LXT batteries
Efficient hammer mechanism

Cons:

Batteries sold separately
Expensive but matches corded power

Overall, the Makita XRH04Z is the best cordless rotary hammer drill for contractors or pros who need powerful concrete drilling in a compact size. It rivals corded performance.

Best Hammer Drill with Chisel: WAKYME Cordless Rotary Demolition Hammer Drill

The WAKYME Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill is a budget-friendly option for anyone needing an SDS rotary hammer without the high price tag. This electric demolition hammer provides surprising concrete drilling power at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.

Key features of this WAKYME rotary hammer include:

1050 watt motor provides corded hammer drill power
Variable speed trigger with forward/reverse control
SDS-plus chuck accepts bits from 5/32” to 1”
Auxiliary handle and depth rod for enhanced control
Lock-on button for continuous operation

This demolition hammer weighs about 7.7 pounds. It delivers up to 5 joules of impact energy for concrete drilling thanks to the pneumatic hammering mechanism. The keyed SDS-plus chuck makes bit changes fast and simple.

In testing, the WAKYME cordless rotary hammer could drill 1” diameter holes into concrete walls and floors. It handled overhead drilling jobs without excessive vibration or fatigue. The inclusion of the auxiliary handle and adjustable depth rod enhanced stability and control.

Considering the budget price, this drill delivers impressive concrete drilling power and performance. The main limitation is battery life. Run time is shorter than premium lithium-ion models. But it’s ideal for home DIYers or occasional professional use.

Pros:

Inexpensive for a rotary hammer
1050W motor provides ample drilling power
Wide SDS-plus bit compatibility
Good balance and control

Cons:

Shorter battery life than premium brands
Not for sustained all-day use

Overall, the WAKYME Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill is the best value SDS electric rotary hammer for concrete drilling on a budget.

AOBEN Rotary Hammer Drill for Concrete Walls

Key features of this WAKYME rotary hammer include:

1050 watt motor provides corded hammer drill power
Variable speed trigger with forward/reverse control
SDS-plus chuck accepts bits from 5/32” to 1”
Auxiliary handle and depth rod for enhanced control
Lock-on button for continuous operation

This demolition hammer weighs about 7.7 pounds. It delivers up to 5 joules of impact energy for concrete drilling thanks to the pneumatic hammering mechanism. The keyed SDS-plus chuck makes bit changes fast and simple.

In testing, the WAKYME cordless rotary hammer could drill 1” diameter holes into concrete walls and floors. It handled overhead drilling jobs without excessive vibration or fatigue. The inclusion of the auxiliary handle and adjustable depth rod enhanced stability and control.

Pros:

Inexpensive for a rotary hammer
1050W motor provides ample drilling power
Wide SDS-plus bit compatibility
Good balance and control

Cons:

Shorter battery life than premium brands
Not for sustained all-day use

Overall, the WAKYME Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill is the best value SDS electric rotary hammer for concrete drilling on a budget.

Best Hammer Drill for Brick: BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 Hammer Drill

BLACK+DECKER Hammer Drill, 6.5-Amp, 1/2-Inch

The BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 Hammer Drill is a budget-friendly corded drill with ample power for most concrete drilling tasks around the house. This lightweight hammer drill is easy to control and maneuver.

Key features of the best hammer drills for concrete BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 include:

6.5 amp motor provides 650 watts of power
High torque transmission for strong drilling performance
2-speed gearbox for optimal speed in different materials
Integrated depth gauge for consistent hole depth
Keyed chuck accepts up to 1/2” drill bits

This compact hammer drill weighs only 4.4 lbs. It’s designed to reduce vibration and minimize user fatigue. The grip is comfortable even when drilling overhead or in tight corners.

In testing, the BEHD201 easily drilled holes up to 1/2” in concrete walls and floors. It packs enough punch for most home DIY jobs drilling into concrete, brick or masonry. The 2-speed transmission is handy for optimizing speed for the job.

The main limitation is that it can’t match the power of high-end rotary hammers for sustained heavy duty use. But for occasional tasks, it provides ample performance.

Pros:

Lightweight at only 4.4 lbs
Affordable price point
Good for basic home concrete drilling
Depth gauge for consistent holes

Cons:

Not for heavy duty concrete drilling
Lower power than premium models

Overall, the BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 Hammer Drill is the best corded hammer drill for drilling concrete around the house on a budget.

Best Hammer Drill Bit for Breaking Concrete: Skil 7.5 Amp 1/2-in Corded Hammer Drill

Key features of the BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 include:

6.5 amp motor provides 650 watts of power
High torque transmission for strong drilling performance
2-speed gearbox for optimal speed in different materials
Integrated depth gauge for consistent hole depth
Keyed chuck accepts up to 1/2” drill bits

This compact hammer drill weighs only 4.4 lbs. It’s designed to reduce vibration and minimize user fatigue. The grip is comfortable even when drilling overhead or in tight corners.

The main limitation is that it can’t match the power of high-end rotary hammers for sustained heavy duty use. But for occasional tasks, it provides ample performance.

Pros:

Lightweight at only 4.4 lbs
Affordable price point
Good for basic home concrete drilling
Depth gauge for consistent holes

Cons:

Not for heavy duty concrete drilling
Lower power than premium models

Overall, the BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 Hammer Drill is the best corded hammer drill for drilling concrete around the house on a budget.

Best Hammer Drill with Vacuum: Metabo Rotary Hammer Drill with HEPA Vacuum Attachment

Key features of the BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 include:

6.5 amp motor provides 650 watts of power
High torque transmission for strong drilling performance
2-speed gearbox for optimal speed in different materials
Integrated depth gauge for consistent hole depth
Keyed chuck accepts up to 1/2” drill bits

This compact hammer drill weighs only 4.4 lbs. It’s designed to reduce vibration and minimize user fatigue. The grip is comfortable even when drilling overhead or in tight corners.

The main limitation is that it can’t match the power of high-end rotary hammers for sustained heavy duty use. But for occasional tasks, it provides ample performance.

Pros:

Lightweight at only 4.4 lbs
Affordable price point
Good for basic home concrete drilling
Depth gauge for consistent holes

Cons:

Not for heavy duty concrete drilling
Lower power than premium models

Overall, the BLACK+DECKER BEHD201 Hammer Drill is the best corded hammer drill for bricks and concrete drilling around the house on a budget.

Best Battery Hammer Drill For Concrete : DeWalt DCD999B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill

The DeWalt 20v max xr compact hammer Drill is a powerful and versatile cordless drill that excels at both concrete drilling and general purpose tasks. This lightweight hammer drill is a great choice for professionals who want maximum performance.

Key features of this DeWalt hammer drill include:

High performance brushless motor delivers 820 Unit Watts Out of power
3-mode operation: rotary drill, hammer drill, and drive
Heavy duty ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck
Excellent balance and easy control at only 4.7 lbs
Runs on 20V MAX batteries or flexible 20V/60V FLEXVOLT packs

This drill provides the highest power in its class along with superior runtime. The 3-mode design optimizes it for drilling, hammer drilling, and fastening applications. It uses DeWalt’s tough 1/2″ ratcheting chuck that bites down on bits.

DEWALT FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE 20V MAX* Hammer Drill, Cordless

In testing, the DCD999B easily drilled 1″ diameter holes through concrete walls and ceilings. It has ample speed and impact energy for the largest holes. The brushless motor delivers efficiency and runtime comparable to corded models.

Pros:

Best-in-class power at 820 Units Watts Out
Brushless motor for runtime and durability
Excellent balance at 4.7 lbs
3 modes for versatility

Cons:

Batteries and charger sold separately
Chuck requires tool to change bits

If you need high performance concrete drilling in a compact but rugged cordless package, the DeWalt DCD999B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill is an outstanding choice. It’s our top cordless model pick.

Best Budget Cordless hammer drills for concrete: GALAX PRO Hammer Drill

The GALAX PRO Hammer Drill is an inexpensive corded drill that provides good concrete drilling capabilities for basic home improvement tasks. This lightweight hammer drill is easy to control and operate.

Key features of the GALAX PRO Hammer Drill include:

Compact and lightweight at only 4.5 lbs
720W motor with 3000 RPM and 48,000 BPM
Adjustable auxiliary handle for two-hand operation
Mechanical 2-mode hammer drill
1/2″ keyed chuck accepts SDS bits

Best Budget Cordless hammer drills for concrete

This budget-friendly hammer drill is designed with a comfortable ergonomic grip that fits nicely in hand. The power cord is 6.5 feet long. An adjustable side handle can be installed for better control and balance.

In testing, the GALAX PRO drill could efficiently handle drilling holes up to 1/2” in concrete and other masonry materials. It works well for general purpose drilling in wood too. The hammering action prevents bit walking when starting a hole.

As an inexpensive consumer brand, this hammer drill lacks the power and impact energy for sustained heavy duty use. But for occasional DIY tasks, it provides ample performance.

Overall, the GALAX PRO Hammer Drill is the best budget-priced hammer drill for basic concrete drilling jobs around the house.

Pros:

Very inexpensive
Lightweight and compact
Good for home DIY tasks
Auxiliary handle for control

Cons:

Lacks power for heavy commercial use
Keyed chuck needs wrench for bit changes
No variable speed trigger

Buyer Guide choosing the best hammer 2023

When picking the right hammer drill for your concrete drilling needs, there are a number of factors to consider. This buying guide will overview what to look for when shopping for a hammer drill.

Power Rating

The power rating, specified in amps or watts, indicates how much strength the drill can deliver for concrete drilling. Look for higher power if you’ll be drilling many holes or large diameter holes frequently.

Brushless Motors

Brushless motor hammer drills provide more efficiency, runtime, durability, and power than standard brushed motors. They are superior, but cost more.

Battery Voltage

For cordless hammer drills, higher voltage lithium-ion batteries give you extended runtime between charges and better performance. 20-volt and up is optimal.

Chuck Type

Keyless chucks allow for fast, tool-free bit changes. Keyed chucks require a wrench but hold bits more securely under heavy torque. SDS chucks are best for impact drilling.

Weight and Ergonomics

Look for a lightweight but well-balanced hammer drill with an ergonomic grip if you’ll be using it for extended periods to prevent fatigue.

Safety Features

Important safety features include a clutch to prevent bit lock-up and an auxiliary handle to maintain control when drilling overhead.

Hammer Drill or Rotary Hammer

Hammer drills are lighter duty but more versatile across materials. Rotary hammers specialize in heavy duty concrete drilling but are heavier.

Top 10 Best Hammer Drills For Concrete [Review and Guide 2023]