When it comes to drilling through tough materials like concrete or masonry, having the right tool can make all the difference. And while traditional corded hammer drills have been the go-to choice for many professionals and DIY enthusiasts for years, cordless hammer drills have been rapidly gaining popularity in recent times.
With advancements in battery technology, modern cordless hammer drills offer comparable power and performance to their corded counterparts while offering the added convenience of being cordless. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to determine which one is the best for your needs.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top cordless hammer drills available today and explore their key features and benefits. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, we’re confident that our guide will help you find the best cordless hammer drill to tackle your next project with ease.
Brushless technology and 3-speed control: Why the DCD996P2 is a game-changer
- DEWALT-built high power, high efficiency brushless motor of DEWALT 20V hammer drill delivers up to 75% more runtime vs. 18V NiCad brushed motors
- XR Li-Ion batteries with fuel gauge of the cordless hammer drill provide 33% more capacity over standard packs
- Heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts for superior bit gripping strength
- 3-Mode LED provides lighting in dark or confined spaces up to 20X brighter than previous model
- LED Spotlight Mode features 20 minute shutoff function allowing for extended work time in dark or confined spaces
The DEWALT 20V hammer drill boasts a powerful and efficient brushless motor that is capable of delivering up to 75% more runtime compared to 18V NiCad brushed motors. This means that you can work for longer periods of time without having to stop and recharge the battery. Additionally, the cordless hammer drill comes equipped with XR Li-Ion batteries that provide 33% more capacity than standard packs, ensuring that you have the power you need to get the job done.
Another great feature of this hammer drill is its heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts. This provides superior bit gripping strength, allowing you to work with confidence knowing that your bits will stay securely in place.
The DEWALT 20V hammer drill also features a 3-Mode LED that provides lighting in dark or confined spaces up to 20X brighter than the previous model. The LED Spotlight Mode even has a 20-minute shutoff function that allows for extended work time in dark or confined spaces.
Additionally, the cordless hammer drill has a 3-speed, all-metal high-performance transmission that optimizes the tool-to-task for fast application speeds and improved run-time. You can easily switch between drill modes with speeds of 0-450 / 0-1300 / 0-2000 RPM.
One potential drawback of this hammer drill is that it is relatively expensive compared to other models on the market. However, the powerful motor, long battery life, and advanced features make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a reliable and high-performing tool for their projects.
BOSCH RH540M: The Heavy-Duty Rotary Hammer for Extreme Conditions
- CONVENIENT: The Bosch RH540M Combo Rotary Hammer features the SDS-max Bit System for tool-free bit changes with automatic bit locking, dust protection and maximum impact energy transfer rate
- POWER: This rotary hammer provides the best in class impact energy of 6.1 ft.-lbs. Weighing only, 15.2 lbs., the RH540M provides maximum productivity in all day drilling and chiseling applications
- VERSATILE: The RH540M features a combination dual mode selector knob to allow users to select between hammer drilling, chiseling only and the Vario-Lock function
- EFFICIENT: With Varo-Lock Positioning, the rotary hammer rotates and locks chisel into 12 different positions to optimize working angle. The tool also comes complete with service minder brushes to notify users when maintenance is needed
- VARIABLE SPEED: The variable speed dial allows for controlled drilling and chiseling applications. The motor is rated at 170 to 340 RPM in rotary mode and 1,200 to 2,750 BPM in hammer mode, which will easily reduce concrete to dust
Advantages:
- Convenient SDS-max Bit System allows for easy tool-free bit changes with automatic bit locking and dust protection
- Powerful impact energy of 6.1 ft.-lbs. for maximum productivity in drilling and chiseling applications
- Versatile dual mode selector knob for hammer drilling, chiseling only, and Vario-Lock function
- Efficient Varo-Lock Positioning for optimal working angles, and service minder brushes to alert users when maintenance is needed
- Variable speed dial for controlled drilling and chiseling, with a motor rated at 170 to 340 RPM in rotary mode and 1,200 to 2,750 BPM in hammer mode.
Disadvantages:
- Weighing 15.2 lbs., the RH540M may be heavy and tiring to use for extended periods of time
- The powerful impact energy may be excessive for some applications, leading to over-drilling and damage to surfaces or materials
- The rotary hammer may be loud and produce significant vibrations, which may cause discomfort or hearing damage if not used with proper safety equipment.
Get More Done with Skil 7.5 Amp 1/2-in Corded Hammer Drill and 100pcs Drill Bit Set
- Versatility at its best - From tightening screws to drilling into wood, metal and even concrete, this versatile hammer drill is the ideal DIY tool for a variety of home projects.
- Powerful - This drill is equipped with a high torque 7.5 Amp motor that makes it ideal for the most demanding projects.
- TACKLES TOUGH JOBS - This ½” heavy-duty keyed chuck allows for larger bits to power through heavy duty jobs.
- Speed control - The 2-finger variable speed trigger provides increased control.
- Drill longer and more comfortably - The lock-on button lets you to drill for long periods of time. This prevents finger fatigue and allows for different holding options for greater stability.
Versatility at its best – This hammer drill is designed to be a one-stop-shop for all your DIY needs. Whether you need to tighten screws or drill into wood, metal or concrete, this drill can handle it all, making it a versatile tool for a variety of home projects.
Powerful – With a high torque 7.5 Amp motor, this drill packs a powerful punch, making it ideal for even the most demanding projects. Its strength and durability ensure that you can tackle tough jobs with ease.
TACKLES TOUGH JOBS – The ½” heavy-duty keyed chuck allows for larger bits to power through even the most difficult jobs, making it a reliable choice for heavy duty work.
Speed control – The 2-finger variable speed trigger provides increased control, allowing you to adjust the speed to your needs for greater precision.
Drill longer and more comfortably – With a lock-on button, you can drill for longer periods of time without experiencing finger fatigue. This feature also allows for different holding options, providing greater stability and comfort during use.
Makita XRH04Z Rotary Hammer: Your Go-To Tool for Demolition and Construction
- Makita-built variable speed motor delivers 0-1,200 RPM and 0-4,000 BPM
- 3-mode operation for "Rotation Only", "Hammering with Rotation" or "Hammering Only" for multiple applications
- Torque limiting clutch engineered to prevent gear damage by automatically disengaging gears if the bit binds
- Faster drilling with synchronized RPM and BPM
- Job site tested shock absorbent handle protects the battery housing for extra durability
Makita’s variable speed motor delivers flexible RPM and BPM – ranging from 0-1,200 RPM and 0-4,000 BPM. With 3-mode operation options, users can choose “Rotation Only”, “Hammering with Rotation”, or “Hammering Only”, making it versatile for multiple applications.
The tool is engineered with a torque limiting clutch, which automatically disengages gears if the bit binds, preventing gear damage and increasing its lifespan. Additionally, the synchronized RPM and BPM feature provides faster drilling, increasing efficiency and productivity.
For added durability, the tool is equipped with a shock-absorbent handle that protects the battery housing from job site wear and tear.
The Makita-built rotary hammer has several advantages, including its flexibility, durability, and efficiency. The variable speed motor and 3-mode operation make it adaptable for various applications, while the torque limiting clutch and shock-absorbent handle increase the tool’s lifespan and overall durability. Additionally, the synchronized RPM and BPM feature increases drilling speed, resulting in faster work completion.
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill: The Ultimate Tool for Heavy-Duty Drilling
- Cordless hammer drill featuring 3.5 Joules of impact energy provides corded power without the cord
- DEWALT 20V hammer drill features E-Clutch for maximum control in bind-up situations - A Perform and Protect feature.
- SHOCKS - Active Vibration Control of DEWALT 20V brushless hammer drill reduces vibration felt by the user at the handles. A Perform and Protect feature.
- DEWALT built brushless motor for all day runtime and durability
- Retractable utility hook for convenient hanging
Cordless hammer drill with 3.5 Joules of impact energy delivers corded power, making it a convenient and portable tool. It is designed with the following features:
Advantages:
- Cordless design allows for increased mobility and flexibility in the workspace.
- E-Clutch feature provides maximum control in bind-up situations, improving safety and reducing the risk of injury.
- SHOCKS – Active Vibration Control technology reduces the vibration felt by the user, increasing comfort and reducing fatigue.
- DEWALT built brushless motor provides efficient performance, long-lasting runtime, and durability.
- Retractable utility hook enables convenient storage and accessibility.
- German engineering ensures quality and durability.
- Dust management ready, compatible with D25304DH.
Disadvantages:
- The cordless design limits the drill’s runtime compared to corded models, which may require frequent battery replacements or recharging.
- The high impact energy may cause fatigue or discomfort for prolonged use.
- The additional safety and comfort features may increase the overall cost of the drill compared to other models without these features.
- The requirement for a dust management system may add to the overall cost of the tool.
A Must-Have for Every DIY Enthusiast – Denali by SKIL Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
- Cross-compatible with all SKIL PWRCORE 20 tools, batteries, and chargers
- Cordless hammer drill kit with 3-in-1 driver, standard drill, and hammer drill for power and versatility
- Includes a 20V hammer drill, 2 Denali by SKIL 20 2.0Ah lithium batteries, a 2.4A charger that fully charges a 2.0Ah battery in 60 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in 100 minutes, bit, and belt clip
- Toggle between driver (for screws), drill (for wood, plastic, and metal), and hammer drill (for bricks and cement)
- 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck with auto spindle lock for quick, easy bit changes
The SKIL PWRCORE 20 Cordless Hammer Drill kit offers a variety of features to enhance its versatility and performance.
One of the key benefits of this drill is that it is cross-compatible with all SKIL PWRCORE 20 tools, batteries, and chargers. This means that users who already own other SKIL PWRCORE 20 tools can use the same batteries and charger with this drill, reducing the need to purchase additional equipment.
The drill itself is designed to be a 3-in-1 driver, standard drill, and hammer drill, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of projects. It includes a 20V hammer drill, 2 Denali by SKIL 20 2.0Ah lithium batteries, a 2.4A charger that fully charges a 2.0Ah battery in 60 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in 100 minutes, a bit, and a belt clip.
Users can toggle between driver mode (for screws), drill mode (for wood, plastic, and metal), and hammer drill mode (for bricks and cement) depending on the project requirements. The 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck with auto spindle lock makes it easy to change bits quickly and efficiently.
The drill also features a 2-speed toggle that allows users to choose between low torque/high speed or high torque/low speed, with no-load speeds of 0-420 and 0-1600 rpm. The impact rate is 0-6300 and 0-24000 bpm, and the drill offers a maximum torque of 350-inch pounds.
Achieve Professional Results with the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- 1/2in. Cordless hammer drill with high performance motor produces 280 unit watts out for heavy duty jobsite applications
- 1/2in. Ratcheting chuck for improved bit retention
- 25, 500 bpms for faster drilling in concrete and brick
- 2speed gearbox with speeds of 0350/01, 500 for speed of fastening
The 1/2in. Cordless hammer drill is part of the V20 cordless system, offering convenience and versatility. Its high-performance motor produces 280 unit watts out, making it suitable for heavy-duty jobsite applications. The drill features a 1/2in. ratcheting chuck for improved bit retention and a 2-speed gearbox with speeds of 0-350/0-1,500 for speed of fastening. With 25,500 bpms, this drill can drill through concrete and brick quickly. The kit includes V20 20V MAX* Lithium batteries with high-performance cells that provide ample runtime and increased performance, as well as a V20 20V MAX* Lithium charger that can charge the included battery in 60 minutes or less. Additionally, this drill is compatible with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System, with clips and accessories sold separately.
Advantages:
- Part of the V20 cordless system, providing versatility and convenience.
- High-performance motor produces 280 unit watts out, making it suitable for heavy-duty jobsite applications.
- 1/2in. ratcheting chuck improves bit retention and provides convenience.
- 2-speed gearbox with speeds of 0-350/0-1,500 for speed of fastening allows for flexibility in different applications.
- 25,500 bpms for faster drilling in concrete and brick.
- V20 20V MAX* Lithium batteries with high-performance cells provide ample runtime and increased performance.
- V20 20V MAX* Lithium charger provides quick and convenient charging.
- Compatible with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System, allowing for easy organization and storage.
Disadvantages:
- Cordless tools may not have as much power as corded tools.
- Lithium batteries may have a limited lifespan and require replacement after a certain period of use.
- Some users may prefer a dedicated drill for specific applications, such as a dedicated hammer drill or driver.
- The VERSATRACK Wall Organization System clips and accessories are sold separately and may add to the overall cost.
In conclusion, the best cordless hammer drill is one that meets your specific needs and preferences. However, features such as compatibility with other tools and batteries, high-performance motor, ratcheting chuck, fast drilling speed, and reliable batteries and charger are important factors to consider when selecting the right hammer drill for your job. Ultimately, a good cordless hammer drill will make your work more efficient and convenient, allowing you to focus on achieving professional results.
FAQs
-
What is a cordless hammer drill? A cordless hammer drill is a power tool that is designed to drill holes in various materials, such as wood, metal, and concrete, by using a combination of rotary drilling and hammering action. The cordless feature means that the tool is battery-operated, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility.
-
What are the benefits of using a cordless hammer drill? The main benefit of using a cordless hammer drill is the freedom of movement it provides. As there is no cord or cable, you can move around freely without the risk of tripping or getting tangled up. Cordless hammer drills are also more convenient to use in areas where there is no power source available. Additionally, cordless hammer drills are generally more lightweight and easier to handle than their corded counterparts.
-
What features should I look for in a cordless hammer drill? When selecting a cordless hammer drill, there are several features to consider. First, you should consider the power of the drill, which is typically measured in volts. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the drill will be. You should also consider the chuck size, which will determine the size of the drill bits you can use. Other important features include the battery life, the weight and ergonomics of the drill, and any additional features, such as an LED light or variable speed control.
-
What is the runtime of a cordless hammer drill? The runtime of a cordless hammer drill depends on several factors, including the capacity of the battery, the power of the drill, and the materials you are drilling into. Typically, a cordless hammer drill will have a runtime of anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on these factors. It is always a good idea to have a spare battery on hand in case you run out of power during a project.
-
What are some of the best brands of cordless hammer drills? There are many reputable brands that manufacture cordless hammer drills, including Milwaukee, DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, and Ryobi. When selecting a brand, you should consider factors such as the quality of the drill, the reliability of the brand, and the availability of replacement parts and accessories. It is also a good idea to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.