In this article, we have researched and tested several SDS hammer drills to identify the best options on the market. Our top pick for the best SDS hammer drill is the DEWALT SDS MAX Hammer Drill (DCH172B)
An SDS hammer drill is a powerful and versatile tool that is used for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling tasks. These drills are designed to handle tough materials such as concrete, brick, and stone, making them a popular choice for professionals in the construction industry.
In recent years, SDS hammer drills have become more accessible to the general public, and many homeowners have begun to invest in these tools for DIY projects.
When shopping for the best SDS hammer drill, there are several factors to consider. The power of the drill is a critical consideration, as it will determine how quickly and efficiently the tool can complete tasks.
The type of chuck is also important, as it will affect the compatibility of the drill with different types of bits. Additionally, the weight and ergonomics of the drill should be considered, as these factors will affect the user’s comfort and control.
We have considered factors such as power, chuck type, weight, and ergonomics to provide a comprehensive overview of each drill. Whether you are a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, our guide will help you find the best SDS hammer drill for your needs.
Best SDS Hammer Drills
When it comes to heavy-duty drilling tasks, SDS hammer drills are the go-to tools for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
These drills are designed to deliver powerful and precise performance, making them ideal for drilling through concrete, masonry, and other tough materials.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best SDS hammer drills on the market based on their power, performance, durability, and user-friendliness. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these drills are sure to meet your drilling needs with ease.
1. DEWALT SDS MAX Hammer Drill (DCH172B)
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient SDS hammer drill, the DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to handle and maneuver, making it ideal for a range of tasks, including rod hanging, concrete forming, cable tray and strut mounting, clip and bracket mounting, and railing mounting.
- The brushless motor and durable German-engineered mechanism provide efficient performance and runtime, ensuring that you can complete your tasks quickly and easily.
- The SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL System significantly reduces the amount of vibration felt by the user at the handles compared to rotary hammers without this feature, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
Cons
- The tool is sold without a battery or charger, so you’ll need to purchase these separately if you don’t already own them.
- The drill may struggle with larger or more demanding tasks, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty professional use.
- It can be quite expensive compared to other SDS hammer drills on the market.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill is a reliable and efficient tool that is well-suited to a range of tasks.
With its lightweight and compact design, it is easy to handle and maneuver, making it ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
However, it may not be the best choice for those who require a more heavy-duty tool, and the cost may be prohibitive for some users (find out the best cordless drill under $50).
2. GLORITY 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
If you’re in the market for a powerful rotary hammer drill that can handle heavy-duty projects, the GLORITY 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 13AMP high-power industrial motor provides 7.4 joules of impact energy, making it easy to complete heavy-duty projects such as concrete, masonry, and metal with higher efficiency.
- The SDS plus high-strength chuck makes it easy and safe to change drill bits, preventing bit dropping.
- The user-friendly design with a 6-speed adjustable function provides more precise drilling or chiseling effects, while the vibration-dampening system reduces fatigue in the arms and wrists, offering a more comfortable working experience.
Cons
- The GLORITY rotary hammer drill is quite heavy, which may make it difficult for some users to handle.
- Some users have reported that the safety clutch function can be a bit sensitive and may need to be adjusted.
- The dustproof cap that comes with the drill may not fit as snugly as some users would like.
Overall, the GLORITY 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill is a great choice for anyone who needs a powerful tool for heavy-duty projects.
With its efficient drilling capability, convenient design, and complete set of accessories, it’s definitely worth considering.
3. Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel SDS Hammer
If you are looking for a powerful and efficient cordless rotary hammer, the Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1″ SDS Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer is a great choice.
Pros
- Boosts productivity with its fastest drilling speed
- AUTOSTOP Control senses bind-ups, preventing damage to the tool
- Part of the M18 System, offering over 200 solutions
Cons
- Batteries are not included
- A bit on the heavy side at 7.8 pounds
- Pricey compared to other options
This rotary hammer is designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks and can easily go through brick, stone, stucco, and other tough materials.
The fastest drilling speed ensures that you can get your work done quickly and efficiently. The AUTOSTOP Control technology is a great feature that prevents damage to the tool by sensing bind-ups.
The Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1″ SDS Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer is part of the M18 System, which offers over 200 solutions, making it a versatile tool for all your drilling needs.
However, keep in mind that batteries are not included, which can be an added expense.
At 7.8 pounds, this rotary hammer is a bit on the heavy side, which can be tiring if you are using it for long periods. Additionally, it is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
However, if you need a powerful and efficient cordless rotary hammer, the Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1″ SDS Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer is a great investment.
4. ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
If you are looking for a powerful and versatile rotary hammer drill that can handle heavy-duty concrete work, the ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is a great choice.
Pros
- The 12.5Amp industrial motor delivers 5.2 feet/lbs (7 joules) of impact energy, making it perfect for heavy-duty concrete work.
- The safety clutch protection prevents wrist injury from high torque force, and the double-layer anti-vibration system reduces fatigue.
- The drill offers three different functions: drill only, hammer only, and hammer drill, making it suitable for various materials.
Cons
- The bare machine weight of 11.1 lbs may be heavy for some users.
- The drill may produce more noise than other models.
- The SDS-plus chuck may not be compatible with all drill bits.
The ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is designed with a powerful motor that can handle heavy-duty concrete work with ease. The safety clutch protection and double-layer anti-vibration system make it safe and comfortable to use for extended periods.
Additionally, the drill offers three different functions, making it versatile and suitable for various materials.
The drill has a maximum drilling diameter of 1-1/4 inch for concrete and 1/2 inch for metal, and a no-load speed of 880 r/min, which delivers efficient and powerful performance.
The SDS-plus chuck allows for quick and secure bit changes, ensuring uninterrupted progress on your projects. The package includes the drill, SDS-plus drill bits, chisels, auxiliary handle, replaceable carbon brush, lubricant grease, dustproof cap, and carrying case.
Overall, if you are looking for a powerful and versatile rotary hammer drill that can handle heavy-duty concrete work, the ENEACRO SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is definitely worth considering.
5. SHALL SDS Plus Heavy Duty Hammer Drill
If you’re in the market for a versatile and powerful SDS hammer drill, the SHALL 1-inch SDS Plus Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The one-knob switch with four functions makes it easy to quickly switch between drilling, hammering, drilling/hammering, and chisel position adjustment.
- With a 900W pure copper motor, this hammer drill delivers powerful torque and is suitable for drilling and chiseling brick, wood, metal, concrete, masonry, wall, and other hard materials.
- The built-in safety clutch protection and efficient heat dissipation make this hammer drill safe to use and protect your wrists if the drill bit snags.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the drill bit can get stuck in the chuck and be difficult to remove.
- The carrying case is not very sturdy and may not hold up well over time.
- While this hammer drill is suitable for heavy-duty projects, it may be too powerful for smaller DIY projects.
In summary, if you need a powerful and versatile SDS hammer drill for your construction or renovation projects, the SHALL 1-inch SDS Plus Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best SDS hammer drill, it’s important to consider various factors to ensure that you get a tool that meets your needs. Here are some features to look for when shopping for an SDS hammer drill:
Motor Power
The motor power of an SDS hammer drill determines its performance. A powerful motor will make it easier to drill through tough materials such as concrete and masonry. Look for a drill with a motor power of at least 7.5 amps for optimal performance.
Chuck Size
The chuck size of an SDS hammer drill determines the size of the drill bit that can be used. Look for a drill with a chuck size that can accommodate the size of the drill bits you need for your project.
Speed and Impact Rate
The speed and impact rate of an SDS hammer drill determines how quickly and efficiently it can drill through tough materials. Look for a drill with adjustable speed and impact rate settings to ensure that you can customize the tool to your needs.
Vibration Control
Vibration control is an important feature to consider when choosing an SDS hammer drill. Excessive vibration can cause fatigue and discomfort, making it difficult to work for extended periods.
Look for a drill with anti-vibration features to reduce the impact of vibrations on your hands and arms.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is an important consideration when choosing an SDS hammer drill. Look for a drill with a comfortable grip and a well-balanced design to reduce fatigue and strain on your hands and arms.
By considering these features, you can choose an SDS hammer drill that meets your needs and provides optimal performance for your projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between SDS and SDS Plus hammer drills?
SDS and SDS Plus hammer drills are both designed for drilling into hard materials such as concrete, brick, and stone. The main difference between these two types of drills is the size of the shank on the drill bit.
SDS drills have a larger shank than SDS Plus drills, which means they can handle larger drill bits and produce more power. SDS Plus drills are typically smaller and lighter, making them more suitable for lighter-duty tasks.
Which brand offers the top-performing hammer drills for professional use?
There are several brands that offer high-quality SDS hammer drills for professional use. Some of the most popular brands include Bosch, Makita, DeWalt, and Hilti (check out our comparison guide for Ryobi versus Makita).
Each of these brands has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice will depend on the specific needs of the user.
How do corded and cordless SDS hammer drills compare in terms of power and convenience?
Corded SDS hammer drills are typically more powerful than cordless models, as they can draw more power from the electrical outlet (be sure to check out the best cordless hammer drill).
However, cordless SDS hammer drills offer greater convenience and portability, as they do not require a power outlet and can be used anywhere. The choice between corded and cordless will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
What features should be considered when selecting an SDS hammer drill for concrete?
When selecting an SDS hammer drill for concrete, there are several important features to consider. These include the drill’s power, speed, and impact energy, as well as its vibration control and dust collection capabilities.
Additionally, it is important to consider the size and weight of the drill, as well as its overall durability and reliability.
What are the advantages of using an SDS Max Rotary Hammer for heavy-duty tasks?
An SDS Max Rotary Hammer is a powerful tool that is designed for heavy-duty tasks such as breaking up concrete and drilling large holes.
The main advantage of using an SDS Max Rotary Hammer is its power and impact energy, which allows it to quickly and easily break through tough materials.
Additionally, many SDS Max Rotary Hammers come with features such as vibration control and dust collection, which can help to improve user comfort and safety.
How does a rotary hammer drill’s chiseling function enhance its versatility for construction projects?
Many rotary hammer drills come with a chiseling function, which allows them to be used for a variety of construction tasks such as chipping away at concrete, removing tiles, and breaking up stone.
This feature enhances the drill’s versatility and makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of construction projects.