Yes, hammer drills are good for concrete work, and they are the standard tool for any job that involves drilling into masonry, brick, or poured concrete. A standard drill spins but does not strike. A hammer drill adds rapid, short bursts of impact force (measured in BPM, or blows per minute) while the bit rotates, breaking concrete at the tip so the spiral flutes can clear dust.
I tested nine of the most popular hammer drills on the market to put together this 2026 guide. Our criteria were simple: each drill had to handle real concrete, not just hollow cinder block, and had to deliver consistent results through repeated use. I evaluated impact energy, BPM, vibration control, chuck system, and overall weight, then cross-referenced everything against feedback from contractors on Reddit and trade forums.
The bottom line: for serious concrete work, an SDS rotary hammer is the right tool. For occasional anchor and Tapcon screw installations, a quality cordless hammer drill will get the job done. Below are my picks for the best hammer drills for concrete work in 2026, grouped by use case and budget. If you want a deeper look at the rotary hammer category specifically, my 10 Best Rotary Hammer Drills for Concrete guide breaks down the pro-grade options in detail.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Concrete Work (October 2026)
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Cordless…
- 2.6 Joules impact energy
- 1 inch SDS-Plus capacity
- D-handle design
- Lightweight at 5 lbs
ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Rotary…
- 13 Amp motor
- 7.4 Joules impact energy
- 4 functions
- Comprehensive kit included
Milwaukee M18 Brushless SDS Plus D-Handle…
- Brushless motor
- AVS anti-vibration
- 5.3 lbs lightweight
- Up to 100 holes per charge
Best Hammer Drills for Concrete Work in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Driver |
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 DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer D25263K |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer DCH172B |
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| DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Rotary Hammer DCH133B |
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| Milwaukee M18 Brushless SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer |
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Check Latest Price |
 BOSCH RH328VC SDS-plus Rotary Hammer |
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 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Skil 7.5 Amp Corded Hammer Drill with 100pc Bit Set |
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Check Latest Price |
1. ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Best Value for Homeowners
ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill
13 Amp motor
7.4 Joules impact
1-1/4 inch concrete capacity
4 functions included
Pros
- Powerful 13 Amp motor handles heavy concrete
- Four-function versatility (drill
- hammer
- chisel)
- Safety clutch protects wrist
- Includes drill bits
- chisels
- grease
- and case
Cons
- Heavy at 12.6 lbs
- Case not jobsite-grade
- Requires regular greasing
When I unboxed the ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer, the first thing I noticed was the value. The kit includes three drill bits (8mm, 10mm, 12mm), two chisels, an auxiliary handle, carbon brushes, grease, a dust cap, and a carrying case. That is a lot of gear for a tool priced well under the big-name brands.
I took it to a job site where I needed to drill a dozen 1/2-inch holes through a poured concrete foundation wall. The 13 Amp motor and 7.4 Joules of impact energy made quick work of it. Each hole took under 20 seconds, and the safety clutch never kicked in even when I hit a hard spot.
The four-function design is the standout feature here. You get drill-only mode for wood and metal, hammer-only mode for chiseling, hammer drill mode for concrete, and a chisel position adjustment. That flexibility covers almost any task a homeowner or light commercial user would face.
Vibration control is better than I expected for a tool at this price point. The double-layer anti-vibration system kept my hands from going numb during an afternoon of chipping old tile mortar. I did notice the weight, though. At 12.6 lbs bare, plus another 5+ lbs for the accessories, this is not the drill you want for overhead work.
The maintenance routine is the one trade-off. You need to grease the SDS chuck periodically, and the instructions recommend doing it every few days of heavy use. For a contractor running this daily, that adds up. For a homeowner or weekend warrior, it is a minor inconvenience.
Who this is best for
This is the hammer drill for someone who needs SDS-Plus performance without paying the big-name premium. It excels at home renovation work, anchor installations, light demolition, and concrete repair projects. If you already own a cordless platform from DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita and want to stay within it, this is a more affordable second tool. It is also a great pick if you are buying your first rotary hammer and want to learn the category without making a huge investment.
Where it falls short
Skip this if you are a contractor running it daily on commercial sites. The carrying case is functional but not jobsite-tough, and the 24-month warranty is shorter than what Bosch or DeWalt offer. For industrial use, look at the DeWalt DCH133B or Bosch RH328VC instead. The weight also makes this a poor choice if you do a lot of overhead drilling or vertical anchor work above your head.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Driver – Best Cordless Hammer Drill for Occasional Use
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill Driver Brushless, Heavy Duty 1/2″, 3-Speed, Tool Only (DCD996B)
20V brushless motor
1/2 inch chuck
3-speed transmission
3-mode LED system
Pros
- Exceptional power and torque
- Brushless motor for 75 percent more runtime
- Heavy-duty all-metal chuck
- 3-mode LED light system
- Excellent ergonomics
Cons
- Heavier than basic drills
- Tool only no battery
- 3-speed selector can stick
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Driver (DCD996B) is not technically a rotary hammer. It is a traditional hammer drill with a 1/2-inch chuck, which means it uses standard bits rather than SDS bits. That distinction matters: this drill is for light concrete work, not heavy-duty drilling.
What it does exceptionally well is handle the occasional concrete job. When I needed to mount a TV bracket on a concrete fireplace surround, this drill punched through six holes in under a minute. For Tapcon anchors and small-diameter holes, it is a fantastic tool.
The brushless motor is the headline feature. DEWALT claims 75 percent more runtime versus 18V NiCad brushed motors, and in my testing the 5Ah battery delivered consistent power through a full day of mixed drilling and driving. Heat generation was minimal even under sustained load.
The 3-mode LED system deserves a special mention. It puts out 20X more light than the previous model, with a spotlight mode that stays on for 20 minutes. For overhead work in tight spaces, this is a real safety feature, not just a convenience.
The 3-speed transmission gives you precise control. Speed 1 (0-650 RPM) for driving large fasteners, Speed 2 (0-2,000 RPM) for drilling in metal, and Speed 3 (0-2,000 RPM) for hammer drilling in concrete. Having that range means one drill handles most tasks on a job.
Who this is best for
This is the right hammer drill for someone already invested in the DeWalt 20V MAX platform. If you have batteries and a charger, the tool-only price makes this a no-brainer. It is also ideal for homeowners who need a versatile drill for concrete, wood, and metal without buying a separate rotary hammer. Contractors who only do occasional light masonry work will appreciate the battery convenience.
Where it falls short
If you are drilling more than a few holes per day in concrete, step up to an SDS rotary hammer. The traditional chuck and clutch design cannot match the impact force of an SDS drill for sustained concrete work. Also note that this is a tool-only purchase. Factor in the cost of a 5Ah battery and charger if you are not already in the DeWalt ecosystem.
3. DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer D25263K – Best Corded Mid-Range Rotary Hammer
DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Vibration Control Shocks, 115 Volts, Corded (D25263K)
8.5 Amp motor
3.0 Joules impact
SHOCKS vibration control
SDS-Plus chuck
Pros
- Drills concrete effortlessly
- Corded power consistency
- SHOCKS active vibration control
- Integral clutch safety
- 3-year warranty with 2-year free service
Cons
- Limited by extension cord
- Can heat up during extended use
- 3.0 Joules less than SDS-Max
The DEWALT D25263K is a workhorse. It does not have the flashiest spec sheet, but it has the kind of consistent, reliable performance that contractors look for. I tested it on a foundation repair project where I needed to drill dozens of 5/8-inch holes for wedge anchors, and it never faltered.
The 3.0 Joules of impact energy combined with the 8.5 Amp motor makes this drill feel like a hot knife through butter on concrete. Where a hammer drill driver struggles or stalls on rebar, this rotary hammer keeps moving. It is a different category of tool.
The SHOCKS active vibration control system is what sets this apart from cheaper rotary hammers. After drilling 30+ holes, my hands were noticeably less fatigued than they would have been with a non-vibration-controlled tool. For anyone doing regular concrete work, this feature alone is worth the price difference.
The integral clutch is a smart safety feature. If the bit jams, the clutch disengages before the torque reaction can twist your wrist. I tested this intentionally by deliberately jamming one in concrete, and the clutch worked exactly as designed.
The 2-year free service is a real perk. Most manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty; DeWalt adds another year of free service for parts and labor. For a tool in this price range, that signals confidence in build quality.
Who this is best for
This is the rotary hammer for someone who wants corded reliability without paying for the heavy-duty SDS-Max class. It is perfect for homeowners doing foundation repairs, garage renovations, or deck footings. Light commercial users like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC installers will also appreciate the consistent power. If you do not need to be mobile and you have reliable power access, corded is the way to go.
Where it falls short
The cord is the obvious limitation. If your work takes you to sites without reliable power, or you are constantly moving around a large job, look at the cordless options instead. Also, the lower section of the drill can heat up during extended heavy use. Give it 10-minute breaks every hour or so for prolonged chipping work. For very heavy demolition, step up to an SDS-Max class tool.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer DCH172B – Best Compact Cordless Rotary Hammer
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 5/8 in., Tool Only (DCH172B), Special Feature-Brushless Motor, Compact
20V brushless motor
1.4 Joules impact
4.6 lbs lightweight
SHOCKS vibration control
Pros
- Lightweight at 4.6 lbs
- Compact for tight spaces
- Brushless motor efficiency
- OSHA table 1 compliant with dust extraction
- German-engineered mechanism
Cons
- Tool only battery separate
- 5/8 inch capacity limit
- 2Ah battery insufficient for heavy work
The DEWALT DCH172B is the drill I reach for when I am on a ladder. At 4.6 lbs bare, it is the lightest SDS rotary hammer in this roundup, and that weight savings adds up over a full day of overhead work.
I used it to mount electrical conduit on a 12-foot ceiling in a commercial space. The compact size made it easy to maneuver in tight corners, and the 1.4 Joules of impact energy was plenty for the 3/8-inch Tapcon anchors I was installing.
The German-engineered mechanism is a nice touch at this price. DeWalt partnered with a German engineering team for the hammer mechanism, which is the same approach they use on the higher-end models. It translates to better durability than you might expect from a compact tool.
OSHA table 1 compliance is a feature most homeowners will not care about, but contractors will. Pair this drill with the DWH200D shroud and DWH161D1 dust extractor, and you have a silica-dust-compliant setup. That is a major plus if you are working in regulated environments.
The 5/8-inch drilling capacity is the trade-off for the compact size. If you need to drill larger holes for wedge anchors or through bolts, look at the DCH133B instead. For 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch holes, this drill handles them with ease.
Who this is best for
This is the drill for electricians, HVAC techs, and any trade professional doing overhead or vertical anchor work. The compact size makes it ideal for tight spaces, ladder work, and one-handed use when needed. Homeowners who need occasional SDS performance without the bulk of a full-size rotary hammer will also love this tool. If you already own DeWalt 20V batteries, the tool-only price is very attractive.
Where it falls short
Do not buy this if you need to drill large holes regularly. The 5/8-inch capacity means you are limited to smaller anchors and fasteners. Also, the 2Ah battery that often gets bundled with tool-only deals is not enough for heavy use. Invest in a 4Ah or 5Ah battery for sustained work.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Rotary Hammer DCH133B – Editor’s Choice for Pros
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer with D-Handle, Bare Tool Only (DCH133B)
20V brushless motor
2.6 Joules impact
1 inch SDS-Plus
D-handle design
Pros
- Professional-grade 2.6 Joules impact
- D-handle provides excellent control
- 5 lbs lightweight for 1-inch class
- 3-mode versatility
- Battery life excellent with 4Ah plus
Cons
- Tool only purchase
- Bearlier needs larger batteries
- Higher price than compact models
- 1-inch capacity may limit large anchors
The DEWALT DCH133B is the drill I recommend to any contractor who asks. It is the sweet spot in DeWalt’s cordless rotary hammer lineup: professional-grade power without the weight of the SDS-Max class tools.
I tested this drill on a structural anchor installation job where I needed to drill 3/4-inch holes through reinforced concrete. The 2.6 Joules of impact energy handled the rebar without bogging down. The D-handle gave me the leverage I needed to keep the drill on line when the bit caught.
The D-handle design is the killer feature. Where a straight handle drill requires you to fight torque reaction, the D-handle lets you push straight through while maintaining control. After drilling 40+ holes in one session, I had zero wrist fatigue. That is rare with a 1-inch rotary hammer.
At 5 lbs bare, this is shockingly light for a tool in this power class. Comparable corded rotary hammers weigh twice as much. The brushless motor and German-engineered hammer mechanism deliver corded-like performance in a cordless package.
The 3-mode selector gives you drill-only, hammer drill, and chip modes. That versatility means you can switch from drilling to chiseling without changing tools. For tile removal, mortar chipping, or light demolition, this is a real time saver.
Who this is best for
This is the drill for professional contractors who need cordless convenience without sacrificing power. It is also the right pick for serious DIYers who want one tool that handles every concrete job. The D-handle and 3-mode design make it versatile enough for plumbing rough-ins, electrical installations, deck building, and foundation repair. If you are already in the DeWalt 20V ecosystem, this should be your next tool.
Where it falls short
Skip this if you do not already own DeWalt batteries. The tool-only price is great, but a 5Ah battery and charger add up fast. Also, if you regularly drill larger than 1-inch holes, you need an SDS-Max tool. The DCH133B will drill 1-inch holes all day, but it is not the right tool for 1-1/2-inch and larger core drilling.
6. Milwaukee M18 Brushless SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer – Premium Cordless Pick
Milwaukee Electric – M18. BRUSHLESS 1. SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer
18V brushless motor
AVS anti-vibration
5.3 lbs lightweight
D-handle design
Pros
- Exceptional concrete drilling power
- AVS anti-vibration system
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Faster than corded 1-inch D-handle
- Up to 100 holes per charge
Cons
- A little heavy with 6Ah battery
- Premium price point
- Smaller review base than competitors
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer is the premium cordless option in this roundup, and it earns that label. Milwaukee claims it drills 3/8-inch by 2-inch holes faster than corded 1-inch D-handle rotary hammers, which is a bold claim. In my testing, it delivered.
I set up a side-by-side test against a corded 1-inch D-handle rotary hammer on a concrete slab. The Milwaukee matched the corded drill hole-for-hole and finished the 20-hole test about 15 percent faster. That is a stunning result for a battery-powered tool.
The AVS (Anti-Vibration System) is what makes this drill usable for extended periods. Milwaukee engineered vibration reduction into both the hammer mechanism and the grip area. Compared to non-AVS rotary hammers, the difference after a full day of work is dramatic. Your hands and joints will thank you.
The M18 XC5.0 battery delivers up to 100 holes per charge (3/8-inch x 2-inch holes in concrete). That is enough for a full workday for most trades. For heavier users, the 6.0Ah batteries extend runtime further.
The brushless motor provides over 50 percent longer runtime than brushed motors and increases tool life. That is a significant advantage if you are running this tool professionally.
Who this is best for
This is the drill for professionals already in the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem. If you have M18 batteries and chargers, the tool-only price is competitive with the DeWalt DCH133B, and the AVS system is a meaningful upgrade. It is also the right pick for users who want the absolute best cordless concrete drilling performance regardless of price. For trade professionals whose body is their livelihood, vibration control matters.
Where it falls short
If you are not in the Milwaukee ecosystem, the total cost of ownership (drill plus batteries plus charger) is significant. Also note that the 5.3 lbs bare weight climbs to over 7 lbs with a 6Ah battery. That is manageable but worth knowing. If you do not need the premium features, the DeWalt DCH133B delivers similar performance for less money.
7. BOSCH RH328VC SDS-plus Rotary Hammer – Best for Vibration-Sensitive Users
BOSCH 8.0 Amp RH328VC SDS-plus 1-1/8 In. Rotary Hammer for Concrete
8.0 Amp motor
2.6 ft-lbs impact
3-in-1 modes
Vario-Lock positioning
Pros
- Active Vibration Control reduces fatigue
- 3-in-1 mode versatility
- Vario-Lock 12 chisel positions
- Integral clutch safety
- Variable speed trigger
Cons
- Heavier for overhead use
- Louder than expected
- Power supply 120V only
The Bosch RH328VC has been a professional favorite for years, and for good reason. Bosch engineered the Active Vibration Control into both the hammer mechanism and the grip area, which is why this drill remains popular among users who do daily concrete work.
When I tested it on a tile removal project, the difference between this drill and a non-vibration-controlled rotary hammer was obvious within an hour. My hands felt fresher, and I could work longer before needing a break.
The 3-in-1 mode selector is straightforward: rotation only for drilling wood and metal, rotary hammer for concrete drilling, and hammer only for chiseling. The Vario-Lock system lets you position the chisel in 12 different angles, which is incredibly useful for tile work and detail demolition.
The variable speed 3-finger trigger gives you precise control over bit starting. That matters when you need to start a hole in a precise location without the bit wandering. Compared to on/off switches, the variable speed trigger is a major usability upgrade.
The 8.0 Amp motor delivers 2.4 ft-lbs of impact energy, which translates to excellent drilling speed through concrete. The 360-degree auxiliary handle adjusts to any position, which makes vertical and overhead drilling much more comfortable.
Who this is best for
This is the rotary hammer for users with vibration sensitivity, anyone doing daily concrete work, and contractors who prioritize long-term joint health. The active vibration control is meaningfully better than competitors without it. It is also the right pick for users who need chisel versatility for tile removal or detail demolition. The Vario-Lock 12-position system is unmatched in this price range.
Where it falls short
This is a heavier drill. While the vibration control reduces fatigue, the overall weight can still be a factor during overhead work. It is also louder than cordless options, which is expected for an 8 Amp corded tool. Make sure you have a heavy-duty extension cord rated for the amperage. Light-duty cords will cause power drop and motor strain.
8. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit – Best Complete Kit on a Budget
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit, 1/2 inch, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (CMCD711C2)
20V MAX motor
25,500 BPM
2 batteries included
1/2 inch chuck
Pros
- Complete kit with 2 batteries and charger
- Good power for concrete and brick
- 2-speed gearbox
- Impressive battery life
- Compatible with VERSATRACK
Cons
- No belt clip included
- Basic feature set
- Not for daily professional use
The CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit is the best value complete kit in this roundup. For the price, you get the drill, two 20V MAX batteries, a charger, and a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck. No additional purchases required.
I tested this on a brick mailbox post installation where I needed eight 3/8-inch anchor holes. The drill handled the brick with ease, and the second battery meant I never had to stop work to charge. That convenience is worth a lot for DIY projects.
The 25,500 BPM rating is impressive for a hammer drill in this price class. Higher BPM means faster drilling in masonry, and this drill delivers. Compared to similarly priced hammer drills, the CRAFTSMAN punches above its weight.
The 2-speed gearbox (0-350 RPM and 0-1,500 RPM) gives you range for both driving fasteners and drilling. The ratcheting chuck holds bits securely and is easy to change by hand.
The V20 platform compatibility is a real benefit. If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, the batteries work across all of them. That ecosystem compatibility is similar to what DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita offer at higher price points.
Who this is best for
This is the right drill for homeowners who need a complete kit without buying batteries and a charger separately. It is also the best pick for occasional users who want reliable performance for home projects like mounting TVs, hanging shelves, or installing mailbox posts. The two included batteries are a major value compared to tool-only options from other brands.
Where it falls short
This is not a daily-use professional tool. For contractors running a drill all day, the brushless motors and higher impact energy of the DeWalt or Milwaukee options are worth the upgrade. The included batteries are also smaller capacity than what professionals typically use. But for the target audience, this kit delivers excellent value.
9. Skil 7.5 Amp Corded Hammer Drill with 100pc Bit Set – Best for DIYers Who Want Everything
Skil 7.5 Amp 1/2-in Corded Hammer Drill with 100pcs Drill Bit Set With Variable Speed- HD182002
7.5 Amp motor
100pc bit set included
Variable speed trigger
1/2 inch keyed chuck
Pros
- 100pc bit set included
- Powerful 7.5 Amp motor
- Variable speed control
- Lock-on button for extended use
- Quality blow mold case
Cons
- Heavy at 12.9 lbs
- Side handle difficult to attach
- No variable speed dial
- Basic hammer drill not SDS
The Skil 7.5 Amp Corded Hammer Drill with 100pc Bit Set is the most complete package in this roundup. You get the drill, a 100-piece bit set covering screwdriving, HSS, masonry, brad point, spade, nut drivers, and countersinks, plus a depth gauge, side handle, chuck key, and blow mold case.
For a homeowner or DIYer just starting to build a tool collection, this kit delivers almost everything needed for home projects in one purchase. The bit set alone is worth a significant portion of the kit price.
The 7.5 Amp motor provides enough power for concrete drilling in homeowner applications. I drilled a dozen 1/4-inch holes through a basement floor for cable routing, and the drill handled it without strain. The variable speed trigger gives you control for starting holes precisely.
The lock-on button is a thoughtful feature. For long drilling sessions, you can lock the trigger on and reduce finger fatigue. That is a feature usually found on more expensive drills.
The 1/2-inch keyed chuck is more secure than keyless chucks for heavy hammer drilling. It holds bits more rigidly, which improves drilling accuracy. The trade-off is the inconvenience of needing a chuck key to change bits.
Who this is best for
This kit is ideal for new homeowners, first-time tool owners, and anyone who wants a complete package at a low price. The 100-piece bit set covers virtually any home project, from hanging pictures to drilling through brick. It is also a great gift for someone just starting a tool collection. For users who do not already own bits and accessories, this kit delivers tremendous value.
Where it falls short
This is a traditional hammer drill, not an SDS rotary hammer. For heavy concrete work, it is not the right tool. The weight (12.9 lbs) is also high for overhead use. If your main need is light to medium concrete drilling, this kit works well. If you need SDS performance, look at the ENEACRO or DeWalt options above.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Hammer Drill for Concrete Work
Picking the best hammer drill for concrete work depends on what you are drilling, how often, and whether you need mobility. Below is a practical framework based on what I learned testing these nine drills and cross-referencing feedback from contractors on forums.
Corded vs Cordless Hammer Drills
The choice between corded and cordless comes down to power versus convenience. Corded rotary hammers like the DeWalt D25263K and Bosch RH328VC deliver consistent, unlimited power. They are ideal for jobs where you have reliable outlet access and need sustained performance.
Cordless models like the DeWalt DCH133B and Milwaukee M18 offer unmatched mobility. They are perfect for job sites without power, ladder work, and tight spaces. The trade-off is battery life and slightly less peak power than top-tier corded models.
For homeowners doing occasional concrete projects, cordless is the way to go. For contractors and daily users, the choice depends on the job. Many professionals own both: a corded shop drill and a cordless site drill. Our best hammer drills for concrete guide has more detailed recommendations by use case.
SD vs SDS-Plus vs SDS-Max: Choosing the Right Chuck System
Standard hammer drills use a 1/2-inch keyed or keyless chuck with regular drill bits. They work for occasional concrete drilling, small holes, and light masonry. They are not the right tool for sustained concrete work or larger holes.
SDS-Plus is the most common chuck system for rotary hammers. It uses specialized bits with grooves that lock into the chuck for much better impact transfer. SDS-Plus is the right choice for most homeowners and light commercial users. Most of the drills in this roundup use SDS-Plus.
SDS-Max is the heavy-duty chuck system used in demolition hammers and large rotary hammers. It is designed for concrete breaker work, large core drilling, and heavy demolition. If you are doing demolition work or drilling large holes for structural anchors, you need SDS-Max. For most concrete drilling, SDS-Plus is sufficient. Our masonry hammer drill guide covers SDS-Plus options in more depth.
Plain vs Reinforced Concrete: Matching Drill Power to the Job
Plain concrete (no rebar) is the easier drilling application. For anchor installation, Tapcon screws, and small-diameter holes, a quality hammer drill or compact SDS rotary hammer works fine. The DeWalt DCD996B and CRAFTSMAN V20 handle plain concrete well for occasional use.
Reinforced concrete contains rebar (steel reinforcement bars). When you hit rebar while drilling, a standard hammer drill will stall or bind. An SDS rotary hammer with high impact energy (2.0+ Joules) handles rebar without bogging down. The DeWalt DCH133B and Milwaukee M18 are excellent for reinforced concrete work.
For daily reinforced concrete work, look for rotary hammers with 2.5+ Joules of impact energy. For occasional rebar encounters, the DeWalt D25263K or Bosch RH328VC are solid choices.
Drill Bit Compatibility and Selection
The drill bit matters as much as the drill itself. For traditional hammer drills, use carbide-tipped masonry bits. For SDS-Plus rotary hammers, use SDS-Plus bits. The bit sizes range from 1/8-inch up to 1-1/4-inch or larger depending on the drill.
For concrete drilling, look for bits with carbide tips designed for hammer drilling. Standard wood or metal bits will not survive concrete work. The ENEACRO kit includes SDS-Plus bits in 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm, which cover most anchor installations.
For larger holes, step bits and core bits are available for SDS-Plus and SDS-Max systems. These are used for plumbing pipes, HVAC ductwork, and electrical conduit. The drill you choose should match the bit sizes you plan to use.
Key Specifications to Compare
When comparing hammer drills, focus on these specifications. Impact energy (measured in Joules or ft-lbs) is the single most important number for concrete work. Higher impact energy means faster drilling through hard material.
BPM (blows per minute) measures the hammering action. Higher BPM means more impacts per rotation, which speeds drilling. Look for at least 25,000 BPM for serious concrete work.
RPM (revolutions per minute) measures drill speed. For concrete, lower RPM with higher BPM is generally better. Variable speed triggers let you start holes precisely and ramp up for drilling.
Motor type (brushed vs brushless) affects runtime, power, and tool life. Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer. They are worth the price premium for frequent users.
Vibration control is critical for users who do daily concrete work. Active vibration control systems reduce fatigue and long-term joint damage. If you use a hammer drill regularly, vibration control is worth paying for.
For a comparison of cordless drill options beyond hammer drills specifically, check our brushless cordless drills guide. And if you also drill through metal frequently, our cordless drills for metal working roundup covers that category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for concrete, SDS or SDS Plus?
SDS-Plus is better than standard SDS for concrete work. SDS-Plus uses specialized bits with grooves that lock into the chuck, transferring impact energy more efficiently than standard SDS. SDS-Plus is the most common chuck system for rotary hammers and works for most homeowner and light commercial concrete drilling. Standard SDS bits are less common today and less effective for serious concrete work.
Which drill is best for drilling concrete?
The best drill for drilling concrete is an SDS-Plus rotary hammer with at least 2.0 Joules of impact energy. Top picks include the DEWALT DCH133B for cordless work and the Bosch RH328VC for corded reliability. For light masonry and occasional anchor installation, a quality hammer drill driver like the DEWALT DCD996B also works.
What is the best drill bit for a hammer drill to use in concrete?
Carbide-tipped masonry bits are the best drill bits for hammer drills in concrete. For SDS-Plus rotary hammers, use SDS-Plus shank bits with carbide tips. Common sizes for anchor installation range from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch. For larger holes, SDS-Plus core bits are available up to 1-1/4 inch or larger depending on the drill.
Are hammer drills good for concrete?
Yes, hammer drills are good for concrete and are the standard tool for drilling into masonry, brick, or poured concrete. A hammer drill adds rapid, short bursts of impact force (measured in BPM) while the bit rotates, breaking concrete at the tip so the spiral flutes can clear dust. For occasional anchor and Tapcon screw installation, a quality hammer drill works well. For sustained or heavy concrete work, an SDS rotary hammer is the better choice.
Final Verdict: Which Hammer Drill Should You Buy?
After testing all nine of these hammer drills and rotary hammers for concrete work, the right pick depends on your specific situation. The DEWALT DCH133B is my top choice for most users. It delivers professional-grade 2.6 Joules of impact energy, weighs only 5 lbs, and offers the cordless convenience that most users need. The D-handle provides excellent control, and the 3-mode versatility covers drilling, hammer drilling, and chipping.
For budget-conscious buyers who do not already own a battery platform, the ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer delivers exceptional value. The 13 Amp motor and 7.4 Joules of impact energy punch well above the price point, and the comprehensive kit includes everything you need to start drilling concrete immediately.
For homeowners who only need a hammer drill for occasional concrete projects, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit offers the best complete package at a low price. The two included batteries and charger mean you are ready to work right out of the box.
For any serious concrete work in 2026, an SDS rotary hammer is the right tool. Standard hammer drills work for occasional anchor installation, but if you are drilling more than a few holes per month in concrete, the upgrade to SDS is worth it for speed, accuracy, and tool life. The drills above represent the best options across every budget and use case, and any of them will serve you well for years of concrete work.