When it comes to power tools, a cordless hammer drill is an essential piece of equipment for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. These versatile tools can drill through tough materials like concrete and brick, making them ideal for a wide range of tasks, from installing shelves to building decks.
But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which cordless hammer drill is the best for your needs. From battery life to power and torque, there are many factors to consider when making your purchase.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top cordless hammer drills available today and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice DIYer, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best cordless hammer drills on the market.
The ultimate guide to the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Kit (DCD996P2)
- 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 features a powerful, efficient brushless motor that provides up to 75% more runtime than 18V NiCad brushed motors. It is also equipped with XR Li-Ion batteries that have a fuel gauge and provide 33% more capacity than standard packs. The drill boasts a heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts, offering superior bit gripping strength. The 3-Mode LED provides lighting in dark or confined spaces that is up to 20X brighter than previous models, and the LED Spotlight Mode includes a 20 minute shutoff function for extended work time in low-light areas. With a 3-speed, all-metal high performance transmission, the DEWALT 20V hammer drill optimizes tool-to-task for fast application speeds and improved run-time. In drill mode, it can achieve speeds of 0-450 / 0-1300 / 0-2000 RPM.
Advantages:
- High power and efficiency thanks to the brushless motor
- Longer runtime than 18V NiCad brushed motors
- XR Li-Ion batteries provide more capacity and have a fuel gauge
- Heavy-duty metal chuck with carbide inserts for superior bit gripping strength
- Bright LED lighting in dark or confined spaces
- LED Spotlight Mode with 20 minute shutoff function for extended work time
- 3-speed, all-metal high performance transmission for improved run-time and fast application speeds
Disadvantages:
- The DEWALT 20V hammer drill may be more expensive than other cordless drills on the market
- Some users may find the drill to be heavy and difficult to handle for extended periods of time
- The LED lighting may not be as bright or effective in extremely low-light conditions as a separate work light.
BOSCH RH540M: The Power You Need to Tackle Any Job
- 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
The Bosch RH540M Combo Rotary Hammer is designed to offer several benefits and drawbacks to users.
Benefits:
- Convenient SDS-max Bit System allows for tool-free bit changes with automatic bit locking and dust protection
- High power output with best in class impact energy of 6.1 ft.-lbs. for maximum productivity
- Versatile dual mode selector knob allows for hammer drilling, chiseling only, and Vario-Lock function
- Efficient Varo-Lock Positioning offers 12 different chisel positions for optimized working angle
- Variable speed dial allows for controlled drilling and chiseling applications
- Service minder brushes notify users when maintenance is needed
Drawbacks:
- The tool is relatively heavy at 15.2 lbs., which may cause fatigue during extended use
- The high power output may be excessive for some users, leading to unnecessary wear and tear on the tool
- The rotary hammer is designed for heavy-duty applications, so it may not be suitable for lighter tasks or occasional use
- The high speed and power output may produce significant noise and vibration, which could be a concern for some users.
Skil HD182002: The Power You Need to Tackle Any Drilling Job
- 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 offers a wide range of uses, from tightening screws to drilling into a variety of materials such as wood, metal and concrete, making it an ideal tool for a range of home projects. The ability to switch between tasks with ease saves time and money.
Powerful – The high torque 7.5 Amp motor ensures that even the most demanding projects can be tackled with ease. This power provides quick and efficient drilling with less effort, resulting in a more efficient workflow.
TACKLES TOUGH JOBS – The ½” heavy-duty keyed chuck allows for larger bits to be used, making it perfect for tackling heavy-duty projects. This feature also means less time spent changing bits, improving productivity and efficiency.
Speed control – The 2-finger variable speed trigger provides increased control, allowing the user to adjust the speed of the drill to match the material being drilled. This not only improves accuracy, but also reduces the risk of damaging the material being drilled.
Drill longer and more comfortably – The lock-on button is a useful feature that allows the user to drill for long periods of time without experiencing finger fatigue. It also offers different holding options for greater stability, making it easier to drill accurately and reducing the risk of injury.
The Makita XRH04Z Rotary Hammer: Precision and Power in One Tool
- 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
The Makita XRH04Z Rotary Hammer features a Makita-built variable speed motor that delivers 0-1,200 RPM and 0-4,000 BPM. Its 3-mode operation allows for “Rotation Only”, “Hammering with Rotation” or “Hammering Only”, making it a versatile tool for multiple applications.
The torque limiting clutch is designed to prevent gear damage by automatically disengaging gears if the bit binds, protecting the tool from wear and tear. Additionally, its synchronized RPM and BPM allow for faster drilling, making it a reliable tool for even the most demanding jobs.
The job site tested shock absorbent handle protects the battery housing for extra durability, ensuring that the tool can withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill: The Perfect Tool for Electricians and Plumbers
- 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 provides the power of a corded drill without the limitation of a cord. It allows users to have increased mobility and flexibility when working.
The DEWALT 20V hammer drill features E-Clutch, which provides maximum control in bind-up situations, ensuring user safety. The SHOCKS – Active Vibration Control reduces the vibration felt by the user at the handles, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
The DEWALT built brushless motor ensures all-day runtime and durability, which is essential for heavy-duty tasks. Additionally, it has a retractable utility hook that provides convenient hanging for easy storage.
One of the main advantages of this cordless hammer drill is its mobility, which allows users to work in remote locations without the need for a power outlet. Moreover, its E-Clutch feature and SHOCKS – Active Vibration Control feature enhance safety and user comfort, respectively.
However, the main disadvantage of a cordless hammer drill is its limited runtime, which requires frequent recharging. Additionally, cordless models may not be as powerful as their corded counterparts, and their batteries can add weight to the tool, making it less ergonomic.
Invest in Quality and Durability with Denali by SKIL 20V 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
This cordless hammer drill kit offers versatility and compatibility with all SKIL PWRCORE 20 tools, batteries, and chargers. It features a 3-in-1 driver, standard drill, and hammer drill, allowing you to switch between different modes for various tasks. The kit includes a 20V hammer drill, 2 Denali by SKIL 20 2.0Ah lithium batteries, a 2.4A charger that can fully charge a 2.0Ah battery in 60 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in 100 minutes, a bit, and a belt clip. The drill has a 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck with auto spindle lock for quick and easy bit changes. The 2-speed toggle allows you to choose between low torque or high speed with a no-load speed range of 0-420 and 0-1600 rpm. It has a reliable performance with an impact rate of 0-6300 and 0-24000 bpm and a maximum torque of 350-inch pounds.
Advantages:
- Compatibility with all SKIL PWRCORE 20 tools, batteries, and chargers makes it easy to expand your tool collection without having to buy new batteries or chargers.
- The 3-in-1 driver, standard drill, and hammer drill offer versatility for different types of tasks, eliminating the need for multiple tools.
- The kit includes two lithium batteries and a fast charger that can fully charge a 2.0Ah battery in just 60 minutes, allowing you to work longer with minimal downtime.
- The 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting chuck with auto spindle lock enables quick and easy bit changes, improving efficiency and convenience.
- The 2-speed toggle allows you to adjust the speed and torque according to your needs, making it suitable for a range of applications.
Disadvantages:
- It may not be as powerful as corded hammer drills, which may limit its use in heavy-duty tasks.
- The batteries may need to be charged frequently for extended use, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The 1/2-inch chuck may not be suitable for larger drill bits, which may limit its versatility in some applications.
The Future of Drilling: 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 a powerful and versatile tool that is part of the V20 cordless system. It features a high-performance motor that produces 280 unit watts out, making it suitable for heavy-duty jobsite applications. The drill includes a 1/2in. ratcheting chuck for improved bit retention and can drill at 25,500 bpms, allowing for faster drilling in concrete and brick. With a 2-speed gearbox that has speeds of 0-350/0-1,500, the drill can also be used for fastening. The kit includes V20 20V MAX* Lithium Batteries with high-performance cells that provide ample runtime and increased performance. The V20 20V MAX* Lithium charger can fully charge the included battery in 60 minutes or less. Additionally, the drill is compatible with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System, although clips and accessories are 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, making it easier to use.
- Fast drilling capability in concrete and brick with a speed of 25,500 bpms.
- 2-speed gearbox allows for fastening and flexibility for different applications.
- Included V20 20V MAX* Lithium Batteries provide ample runtime and increased performance.
- Quick charging time of 60 minutes or less with the included V20 20V MAX* Lithium charger.
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 larger or more powerful hammer drill for heavy-duty applications.
- The VERSATRACK Wall Organization System is not included and requires separate purchase.
In conclusion, the cordless hammer drill is an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. Its cordless design offers freedom of movement and convenience, while its powerful motor, high-performance Lithium batteries, and fast-charging Lithium charger make it a reliable and efficient tool for heavy-duty jobsite applications. While there are many cordless hammer drills on the market, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit stands out for its compatibility with the V20 cordless system, improved bit retention, fast drilling speed, and two-speed gearbox. Overall, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit is a top-performing tool that can handle a variety of tasks and is an excellent addition to any toolbox.
FAQs
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What is a cordless hammer drill? A cordless hammer drill is a power tool that combines the functions of a drill and a hammer, used for drilling through tough materials such as concrete or masonry. It is powered by a rechargeable battery and does not require a power outlet or cord.
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What are the advantages of using a cordless hammer drill? The main advantage of using a cordless hammer drill is its portability and convenience. With no cord to restrict movement, you can easily move around a job site or work in tight spaces. Cordless hammer drills are also lightweight and compact, making them easier to handle and store.
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What should I look for when buying a cordless hammer drill? When buying a cordless hammer drill, you should consider the battery life, power and torque, speed settings, and chuck size. You should also look for a model with a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls. Additionally, consider the brand reputation and warranty to ensure that you are getting a reliable product.
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How long does the battery last on a cordless hammer drill? The battery life of a cordless hammer drill can vary depending on the model and usage. Generally, a fully charged battery can last between 30 minutes to 2 hours of continuous use. However, some high-end models may have longer battery life and faster charging times.
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What is the best cordless hammer drill on the market? There are many excellent cordless hammer drills on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Some popular options include the DeWalt DCD996P2, Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL, and Makita XPH07Z 18V LXT. It is recommended to read reviews and do some research before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.