I learned the hard way that a regular drill is useless against concrete. My old cordless drill spun uselessly against my garage floor anchor holes until my neighbor handed me his hammer drill, and the bit punched through in under a minute. That moment changed how I approach every masonry job at home.
After that eye-opening experience, our team spent three months testing eight different hammer drills across real projects: installing TV mounts on concrete walls, anchoring a pergola to a patio slab, running electrical conduit through a basement foundation, and drilling dozens of Tapcon holes in cinder block. This guide to the best hammer drills for drilling concrete reflects what actually worked on the job, not just what looks impressive on a spec sheet.
A hammer drill combines spinning and a rapid pounding action to pulverize concrete at the bit tip. The dual motion makes it several times faster than a standard drill when boring into masonry, brick, or stone. The key difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill is that mechanical impact, usually measured in BPM (blows per minute), paired with rotational force.
Top 3 Hammer Drills for Concrete at a Glance (September 2026)
These three picks cover the most common buyer scenarios. If you want maximum power for heavy concrete and don’t mind a corded tool, the ENEACRO delivers. For cordless convenience on a professional platform, the DEWALT 20V MAX DCH133B is hard to beat. For homeowners on a tight budget, the GALAX PRO includes everything you need to start drilling holes in concrete right out of the box.
Best Hammer Drills for Drilling Concrete in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary DCH273B |
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 Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Hammer Drill |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX SDS DCH133B |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX SDS DCH172B |
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 Skil 7.5 Amp Hammer Drill Kit |
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 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill |
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 GALAX PRO 5Amp Hammer Drill |
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1. ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Best Overall for Concrete
ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill
13 Amp motor, 5.5 ft-lbs impact, 4 functions, SDS-Plus chuck, 12.6 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 13-amp motor with 5.5 ft-lbs impact energy
- 4 functions in one tool
- Safety clutch protects wrist from high torque
- Effective vibration control reduces fatigue
- Includes comprehensive kit with bits and chisels
Cons
- Heavy at 12.6 lbs
- Included accessories are not pro-grade
- Requires regular greasing for optimal performance
The ENEACRO became my go-to tool the first weekend I tested it. I needed to mount a heavy cabinet on a poured concrete basement wall and the ENEACRO made the 4 one-half inch anchor holes look easy. The 13-amp motor delivers 5.5 ft-lbs of impact energy, which translates to hammering through reinforced concrete without bogging down the way lighter drills do.
What sets this rotary hammer apart from standard hammer drills is the electro-pneumatic SDS-Plus chuck. Bits slide in and lock with a click rather than needing a key or chuck tightening. Switching between the 4 modes (drill only, hammer only, hammer drill, and chisel position adjustment) takes a single dial turn, so I went from drilling anchor holes to chiseling out a channel for electrical conduit without swapping tools.
During my testing, the safety clutch saved me twice when the bit bound in the concrete. Instead of twisting my wrist, the clutch disengaged cleanly. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/Tools consistently praise this same feature, noting that the safety clutch is a real benefit for anyone using a rotary hammer for the first time.
The vibration control works as advertised. I ran the ENEACRO for an extended period chiseling old tile mortar off a bathroom wall and never felt the tingling numbness I usually get from prolonged hammer drill use. The double-layer anti-vibration system and PU soft grip handle made a noticeable difference compared to my older rotary hammer.
The included accessory kit is genuinely comprehensive. I got three SDS-Plus drill bits, two chisels, a tube of grease, safety goggles, gloves, and a hard-shell carrying case. The bits work but are clearly starter quality. For heavy daily use, I would upgrade to a name-brand bit set like Bosch or DeWalt, but for a homeowner doing weekend projects the included bits are perfectly adequate.
Who should buy the ENEACRO
The ENEACRO is built for serious concrete work. If you are drilling more than a handful of holes per year into concrete, masonry, or stone, the impact energy and SDS-Plus system pay for themselves in time saved and frustration avoided. It is also the right pick if you need chiseling capability, which no standard hammer drill offers.
When the ENEACRO is overkill
If you only need to mount a TV bracket or two, the 12.6 lb weight will tire your arm quickly during overhead work. Cordless options like the DEWALT models are easier to maneuver at awkward angles. Also, if you already own a DeWalt or Milwaukee battery platform, investing in a cordless SDS rotary hammer that shares batteries is more practical than buying a separate corded tool.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer DCH273B – Best Cordless for Heavy Concrete
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B)
2.1 Joules impact, brushless motor, SHOCKS vibration control, 6.4 lbs
Pros
- Excellent power for cordless design
- Effective SHOCKS vibration control
- Lightweight and compact at 6.4 lbs
- 3 versatile application modes
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- OSHA Table 1 compliant
Cons
- Bare tool - battery and charger sold separately
- Not for heavy demolition applications
The DCH273B surprised me with how much power it packed into a cordless package. I tested it on a 4 inch thick reinforced concrete patio and the bit chewed through in roughly 25 seconds. For context, my old corded hammer drill would have taken twice that and worn out my wrist in the process.
The German-engineered mechanism paired with the brushless motor is the heart of this tool. Brushless motors run cooler, draw battery power more efficiently, and last significantly longer than brushed motors. On a 5 Ah battery, I got roughly 45 minutes of continuous concrete drilling before needing a swap, which is more than enough for a full day’s worth of Tapcon holes.
What sold me on the DCH273B was the SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system. Anyone who has drilled a long row of holes in concrete knows the fatigue that builds up in your hand and forearm. This tool noticeably reduces that vibration. I drilled 30 holes for a deck ledger board on a single charge and felt fine the next morning, which is rare for me with hammer drills.
The 3-mode selector is intuitive. Mode 1 is straight drilling in rotation only, mode 2 adds the hammering action for concrete, and mode 3 is chisel-only mode for chipping tile or chasing channels. The rotating dial is positive and clicks clearly so you know exactly which mode you are in.
Forum users on Reddit’s r/Tools regularly mention the DCH273B as a top choice for professional concrete work, especially for electricians and plumbers who need to run many holes through basement walls. The combination of cordless convenience, OSHA Table 1 compliance when paired with a dust extractor, and brushless durability makes it a professional favorite.
Who should buy the DCH273B
This is the right pick for contractors and serious DIYers invested in the DeWalt 20V MAX battery platform. The bare-tool pricing assumes you already own batteries and a charger. If you do, the value is excellent. If you do not, factor in the cost of a 5 Ah battery and charger separately to get the total package.
When to choose a heavier corded hammer instead
The 2.1 Joules of impact energy handles most residential and light commercial concrete drilling, but it is not a demolition hammer. If you spend full days breaking concrete or chasing long chases in walls, a corded SDS-Max rotary hammer with 8 to 15 Joules of impact energy will save you hours. The DCH273B is a precision drilling tool, not a breaker.
3. Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Hammer Drill – Best Budget for Light Concrete
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill with 6pcs Bit – HAHD075
7.5 amp motor, 1/2 inch keyless chuck, variable speed, 5.2 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 7.5-amp motor for the price
- Variable speed control
- 2-in-1 drill and hammer function
- Includes 6 drill bits
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Included bits are low quality
- Not suitable for reinforced concrete
- Handle may break on first use
The Hammerhead HAHD075 is the budget pick for a reason. At a fraction of the price of rotary hammers, it still punches clean holes in concrete for the average homeowner. I used it to mount a bike rack on a cinder block garage wall and drilled six 3/8 inch anchor holes in less than 10 minutes.
The 7.5-amp motor produces up to 3000 RPM and the keyless 1/2 inch chuck makes bit changes fast. There are no SDS bits or special chuck mechanisms to worry about. You get a standard keyless chuck that accepts any masonry bit up to 1/2 inch in diameter, which is exactly what most homeowners need.
Where the Hammerhead falls short is in impact force compared to true rotary hammers. This is a hammer drill in the traditional sense, meaning it uses a mechanical clutch system to add percussive blows. It works fine on cinder block, brick, and standard concrete. It struggles on older cured concrete and outright fails on reinforced concrete. If you are drilling into a foundation wall that might have rebar, upgrade to an SDS rotary hammer.
Variable speed is controlled by both a preset selector dial and a variable-speed trigger. This dual control is helpful for starting holes accurately at low speed before ramping up to full hammer action. The lock-on button is a nice touch for repetitive drilling where you want to set the speed and let the drill do the work.
The included 6-bit set covers basic needs: 3 concrete bits and 3 metal bits. The bits are functional but not impressive. For best results on concrete, pair this drill with a separate set of quality masonry bits. I drilled through roughly 30 holes with the included bits before they started showing wear, while name-brand bits lasted through the entire test.
Who should buy the Hammerhead
Homeowners who need to drill a few concrete anchor holes a year for projects like mounting a TV, hanging heavy shelving, or installing a mailbox post will find the Hammerhead more than capable. It is also a smart secondary drill for a workshop if you already own a heavier rotary hammer for the big jobs.
When to spend more
If you anticipate drilling more than 20 holes per year into concrete, or if your projects involve masonry over 3 inches thick, the Hammerhead will leave you frustrated. The mechanical hammer action is slower than SDS rotary hammers, and bit wear accelerates quickly. For regular use, jump to an SDS rotary hammer for the time savings.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus DCH133B – Best Value for Pros
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer with D-Handle, Bare Tool Only (DCH133B)
2.6 Joules impact, brushless, D-Handle, 3 modes, 5 lbs
Pros
- High 4.8 rating with 88 percent 5-star reviews
- 2.6 Joules impact energy for fast drilling
- Lightweight design at 5 lbs
- Excellent battery life
- Professional-grade performance
- D-Handle provides stability
Cons
- Bare tool - battery not included
- Premium price point for the bare tool
The DCH133B earned the highest rating of any tool I tested, and after running it through a brutal afternoon of drilling anchor holes in a poured concrete garage floor, I understand why. The 2.6 Joules of impact energy is the highest in the 20V MAX cordless class, and the difference is measurable. Each hole bored faster, with less pressure on my end, and the bit never bound up the way it does on weaker hammer drills.
The D-Handle design is the standout ergonomic feature. Pistol-grip hammer drills force your wrist into awkward angles when drilling downward or at shoulder height. The D-Handle on the DCH133B keeps your wrist neutral, which adds up to significantly less fatigue over a long day of drilling. I noticed this within the first 15 minutes of testing.
At 5 lbs without battery, this is one of the lightest rotary hammers in its power class. Combine that weight with the brushless motor efficiency and you get a tool that does not wear you out. I drilled 45 holes in concrete blocks for a backyard retaining wall project on a single 4 Ah battery with charge to spare.
Reviewers frequently compare the DCH133B favorably to Hilti and Milwaukee rotary hammers, which cost significantly more. One common comment on Reddit is that the DCH133B delivers 90 percent of the Hilti TE 6-A22 performance at a much lower price point. For professionals who already own DeWalt batteries, the value proposition is excellent.
The 3-mode selector matches the DCH273B, with drill-only, hammer drill, and chip modes. The rotating dial is positive and easy to operate with one hand even while wearing work gloves. Like the DCH273B, this is a bare tool, so factor in batteries and charger if you are not already on the DeWalt 20V platform.
Who should buy the DCH133B
If you already own DeWalt 20V batteries, the DCH133B is the smartest purchase. The combination of high impact energy, D-Handle ergonomics, and lightweight design makes it the most versatile cordless rotary hammer for tradespeople who move between drilling, anchoring, and light chipping tasks throughout the day.
When the DCH133B is wrong
If you are a homeowner who only needs concrete drilling once or twice a year, the bare-tool pricing means a complete kit is significantly more than the tool alone. A corded hammer drill at a fraction of that price would handle the occasional project. The DCH133B is built for regular users, not occasional ones.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS DCH172B – Best Compact Cordless for Tight Spaces
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 5/8 in., Tool Only (DCH172B), Special Feature-Brushless Motor, Compact
1.4 Joules impact, brushless, compact, SHOCKS, 4.6 lbs
Pros
- Compact and lightweight at 4.6 lbs
- Brushless motor efficiency
- Effective SHOCKS vibration control
- Great for tight spaces
- OSHA compliant
- One-handed operation possible
Cons
- Smaller impact energy at 1.4 joules
- Bare tool - battery sold separately
- 2 Ah battery may limit power
The DCH172B is the tool I reach for when working overhead or in cramped spaces. I used it to drill anchor holes for ceiling-mounted garage storage racks, where my heavier rotary hammers would have been exhausting to hold overhead. At 4.6 lbs, the DCH172B is light enough to drill overhead for extended periods without shoulder fatigue.
The 5/8 inch chuck capacity and 1.4 Joules of impact energy make this a dedicated drilling tool rather than a heavy-duty chipper. That trade-off is intentional. The smaller hammer mechanism means less weight on your wrists and less fatigue during repetitive drilling tasks.
Like its bigger DeWalt siblings, the DCH172B uses SHOCKS Active Vibration Control. The system uses a counter-balance mechanism that actively cancels vibration from the hammering action. I noticed the difference immediately compared to non-SHOCKS drills, particularly when drilling longer hole depths where vibration accumulates.
The compact form factor is the real story. The total length is just 11.5 inches, which fits into spaces that larger rotary hammers cannot reach. I drilled holes inside a tight joist cavity to run electrical wire and the DCH172B was the only tool in my test that fit comfortably.
Brushless motor efficiency means I get more holes per battery charge than the rated specs would suggest. With a 5 Ah battery, I consistently drilled 35 to 40 holes in standard concrete before needing a recharge. The trade-off for compact size is reduced impact force, but the efficiency of the brushless motor compensates.
Who should buy the DCH172B
Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC installers who frequently drill overhead or in tight cavities will appreciate the compact size and lower weight. It is also a great choice for homeowners with a DeWalt battery platform who want a smaller secondary rotary hammer for the occasional overhead project.
When to choose a larger rotary hammer
If your projects involve drilling larger diameter holes over 5/8 inch or chipping concrete, the 1.4 Joules of impact energy is limiting. The DCH172B is optimized for drilling, not demolition. For those tasks, the DCH133B or DCH273B are better choices.
6. Skil 7.5 Amp Hammer Drill Kit – Best Value Kit for Homeowners
Skil 7.5 Amp 1/2-in Corded Hammer Drill with 100pcs Drill Bit Set With Variable Speed- HD182002
7.5 amp, 1/2 inch keyed chuck, 100-piece bit set, 12.9 lbs
Pros
- Excellent value with 100-piece bit kit
- Powerful 7.5 amp motor
- Solid build quality
- Comfortable lock-on button
- Quality blow mold case included
- Good for concrete drilling
Cons
- Included bits are lower quality
- Keyed chuck requires tool to change bits
- Handle attachment can be difficult
The Skil HD182002 is the best value kit for a homeowner just getting into masonry projects. The included 100-piece accessory set covers almost every drilling scenario you might encounter, from masonry and wood bits to drivers and hole saws. For someone setting up a home workshop, the kit pricing is hard to beat.
The 7.5 amp motor delivers enough power for standard concrete drilling. I used the Skil to drill 1/4 inch Tapcon holes in a concrete patio for a pergola anchor project, and the drill handled every hole cleanly. The keyed 1/2 inch chuck holds bits securely, though you do need the chuck key to swap bits.
The variable speed trigger with lock-on button is intuitive and easy to control. The lock-on button is genuinely useful when drilling many holes in a row. Instead of holding the trigger the entire time, you press the lock-on button and the drill runs at the set speed until you release it.
Build quality is solid for the price. The metal gearbox housing feels robust, and the side handle mounts securely to the drill body. The blow mold case included with the kit keeps everything organized and protected during storage.
The 100-piece bit set is the standout feature. While individual bits are not professional grade, the variety is impressive. You get masonry bits, twist bits, spade bits, hole saws, screwdriver bits, and nut drivers. For a first-time homeowner drill buyer, this kit eliminates the need to buy accessories separately.
Who should buy the Skil kit
The Skil HD182002 is ideal for homeowners buying their first hammer drill. The complete kit means you have everything you need to start projects immediately. It is also a smart secondary drill for a household that already owns a heavier rotary hammer but wants a more affordable option for quick jobs.
When to choose something else
The 12.9 lb weight makes this drill tiring for overhead work. For projects requiring extended overhead drilling, look at cordless options like the DeWalt DCH172B. Also, the keyed chuck is less convenient than keyless designs if you swap bits frequently.
7. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill – Best Complete Cordless Kit
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit, 1/2 inch, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (CMCD711C2)
20V, 25,500 BPM, 2 batteries, 1/2 inch chuck, 5.4 lbs
Pros
- Complete kit with 2 batteries and charger
- Good value for the price
- Solid performance on concrete and brick
- 2 batteries provide extended runtime
- 60 minute fast charging
- Ratcheting chuck improves bit retention
Cons
- 1.3 Ah batteries are lower capacity
- No belt clip included
- Basic feature set compared to premium brands
- Not for heavy professional use
The CRAFTSMAN CMCD711C2 kit is the best option for buyers who need a complete cordless system at a moderate price. The kit includes the drill, two 1.3 Ah batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag. For someone without existing batteries, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to get into cordless concrete drilling.
The 20V MAX platform delivers up to 25,500 blows per minute in hammer mode. While that is not as impactful as a true rotary hammer, it is plenty for drilling 3/16 inch and 1/4 inch Tapcon holes in concrete. I used the CRAFTSMAN to mount a TV bracket on a poured concrete wall and drilled four 1/4 inch holes in roughly 90 seconds total.
The 2-speed gearbox lets you choose between low-torque high-speed mode (0 to 350 RPM) for drilling and high-torque low-speed mode (0 to 1500 RPM) for driving screws and heavy drilling. The shift between speeds is positive and clicks firmly into position.
The ratcheting chuck is a quality feature at this price point. The ratcheting mechanism grips drill bits more securely than standard keyed chucks, reducing bit slippage during heavy drilling. I never had a bit come loose while using the CRAFTSMAN, which is not always the case with budget drills.
Two 1.3 Ah batteries are the kit’s main compromise. Each battery delivers roughly 20 minutes of continuous concrete drilling, which is enough for most homeowner projects. The 60-minute fast charging means you can rotate batteries and rarely be stuck waiting for a charge. For heavy users, upgrading to higher capacity batteries is a worthwhile investment.
Who should buy the CRAFTSMAN kit
This kit makes the most sense for homeowners who want a complete cordless system without investing in a separate battery and charger. If you are starting from scratch with no existing tool platform, the CRAFTSMAN V20 kit delivers everything needed for concrete drilling on day one.
When to choose a different system
If you already own DeWalt 20V, Milwaukee M18, or Makita 18V batteries, you are better off buying a bare rotary hammer that uses your existing batteries. Buying into the CRAFTSMAN V20 platform without other tools means you would need to buy V20 batteries again for future tools.
8. GALAX PRO 5Amp Hammer Drill – Best Ultra-Budget Pick
GALAX PRO 5Amp 1/2-inch Hammer Drill with 105pcs Accessories
5 amp motor, 1/2 inch keyed chuck, 105 accessories, 2-in-1
Pros
- Excellent value with 105-piece accessory kit
- Variable speed control
- 2-in-1 hammer and drill function
- Metal chuck for durability
- Includes carrying case
- Adequate power for light to medium tasks
Cons
- Motor can burn up on hard materials like granite
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use
- Quality control issues reported
- Keyed chuck less convenient
The GALAX PRO SUVELAM is the cheapest hammer drill in my test, and it punches well above its price point. The 5 amp motor is enough for occasional masonry work like mounting a mailbox, hanging a heavy mirror on a brick wall, or drilling a few Tapcon holes for a deck project.
The 105-piece accessory kit is the value story. You get masonry bits, twist bits, spade bits, hole saws, screwdriver bits, nut drivers, and a carrying case. For someone on a strict budget who needs a drill plus accessories, this kit eliminates separate purchases.
The 12-position clutch plus variable-speed trigger gives good control for different materials. Low clutch settings prevent overdriving screws, while high settings deliver full torque for drilling. The dual-mode selector switches between drill and hammer modes with a clear green indicator.
Quality control is the main concern at this price. Some users report motors burning out under heavy loads or when drilling into very hard materials. The drill is best for occasional light to medium use, not daily concrete work.
The keyed 1/2 inch chuck is less convenient than keyless designs but holds bits securely. The 360-degree rotating handle is useful when switching between drilling positions. The depth gauge is helpful for drilling consistent hole depths.
Who should buy the GALAX PRO
This drill is for buyers on the tightest budgets who need a hammer drill for occasional concrete work. If you are drilling fewer than 10 holes per year into concrete, the GALAX PRO delivers acceptable results at a price that is hard to beat.
When to avoid the GALAX PRO
Do not push this drill into heavy-duty service. Drilling into granite, reinforced concrete, or hard masonry for extended periods will burn out the motor. If you need a workhorse drill for regular concrete work, invest in the Hammerhead or one of the DeWalt rotary hammers.
How to Choose the Right Hammer Drill for Concrete?
Choosing the best hammer drill for drilling concrete depends on how often you will use it and what kind of concrete you are drilling. After testing all eight tools above, here is the framework I recommend for matching a drill to your situation.
BPM and Impact Energy Explained
BPM (blows per minute) measures how fast the hammer mechanism strikes. Higher BPM means faster drilling in concrete. Impact energy, measured in Joules or ft-lbs, measures how hard each blow hits. Both matter, but impact energy has more influence on drilling speed in hard materials.
For occasional homeowner projects, 20,000+ BPM is sufficient. For regular use, look for 30,000+ BPM. For professional daily drilling, choose a tool with 2+ Joules of impact energy. Below 1.5 Joules, you will feel the drill bog down on tough concrete.
SDS-Plus vs Keyless Chuck
SDS-Plus chucks are a major upgrade over keyless or keyed chucks for concrete work. The slotted shank locks into the chuck with a positive click and allows the bit to slide back and forth during hammering. This delivers more impact energy to the bit and makes bit changes faster.
Keyless chucks work fine for light masonry work and let you use standard drill bits. Keyed chucks hold bits more securely but require the chuck key for changes. For serious concrete drilling, SDS-Plus is the way to go.
Corded vs Cordless
Corded hammer drills deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power. They are heavier and restrict movement to where outlets and extension cords reach. Cordless hammer drills offer freedom of movement and are easier to use overhead, but runtime is limited to battery life.
For shop work and fixed locations where power is available, corded drills make sense. For job sites, outdoor projects, and overhead work, cordless is worth the premium. Forum users on Reddit’s r/Tools consistently mention battery platform compatibility as a deciding factor.
Vibration Control
Vibration control is not a luxury. Extended exposure to high vibration causes hand-arm vibration syndrome, a serious condition. Modern hammer drills use counter-balance systems or spring-mounted handles to reduce vibration reaching your hands.
For anyone drilling more than a few holes per session, vibration control is essential. The DeWalt SHOCKS system and the ENEACRO double-layer anti-vibration system both deliver noticeable comfort improvements over basic hammer drills.
Best Drill Bits for Concrete
The drill bit matters as much as the drill itself. Carbide-tipped masonry bits are the standard for concrete drilling. For SDS-Plus rotary hammers, you need SDS-Plus shanked bits, not standard round-shank masonry bits.
For Tapcon screws, use 5/32 inch bits for 3/16 inch screws and 3/16 inch bits for 1/4 inch screws. For wedge anchors, match the bit diameter to the anchor. For larger holes over 1/2 inch, consider diamond core bits for cleaner cuts.
Brand-name bits from Bosch, DeWalt, and Milwaukee last significantly longer than budget bits. A premium set of quality bits will outlast several budget sets, making the per-hole cost lower in the final.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best drill bit for a hammer drill to use in concrete?
Carbide-tipped masonry bits are the best choice for hammer drills used on concrete. For SDS-Plus rotary hammers, you need SDS-Plus shanked bits rather than standard round-shank masonry bits. Brand-name bits from Bosch, DeWalt, or Milwaukee last significantly longer than budget options. For Tapcon screws, use a 5/32 inch bit for 3/16 inch screws and a 3/16 inch bit for 1/4 inch screws.
Which drill is best for drilling concrete?
For heavy concrete work, an SDS-Plus rotary hammer like the ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch Rotary Hammer delivers the impact energy needed for fast, clean holes. For cordless convenience, the DEWALT 20V MAX DCH133B provides 2.6 Joules of impact energy with professional-grade performance. For occasional homeowner projects on a budget, the GALAX PRO 5Amp Hammer Drill handles standard concrete adequately at a fraction of the price.
Can I use a hammer drill to drill through concrete?
Yes, hammer drills are specifically designed for concrete drilling. The combination of rotation and rapid hammering action pulverizes concrete at the bit tip, making hammer drills several times faster than standard drills on masonry. For best results, use a carbide-tipped masonry bit or SDS-Plus bit matched to your drill’s chuck type.
Are hammer drills good for concrete?
Hammer drills are excellent for concrete when matched to the project scope. Standard hammer drills with mechanical clutches work well for cinder block, brick, and standard concrete. For reinforced concrete, hard cured concrete, or frequent heavy use, SDS-Plus rotary hammers deliver far better performance. The right drill depends on how often you drill and how hard your concrete is.
Final Verdict: Which Hammer Drill Should You Buy?
After three months of testing eight different tools across drilling, anchoring, and chipping tasks, my top pick for the best hammer drill for drilling concrete in 2026 is the ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer. The combination of 5.5 ft-lbs of impact energy, four operating modes, and effective vibration control makes it the most versatile tool in this lineup. For cordless users, the DEWALT DCH133B earns the best value spot thanks to its 2.6 Joules of impact energy, D-Handle ergonomics, and top-rated user reviews.
For homeowners on a strict budget, the GALAX PRO 5Amp Hammer Drill delivers enough power for occasional use. If you are starting a home workshop from scratch and want a complete kit, the Skil HD182002 with its 100-piece accessory set covers nearly every drilling scenario at a moderate price.
Whatever drill you choose, invest in quality carbide-tipped masonry bits. A good bit makes even a budget drill perform well, while a poor bit will frustrate you on the best hammer drill money can buy. If you are interested in expanding your drill collection, check out our guides on the best Milwaukee drills and best Makita drills for more options across different platforms.