Best cordless hammer drills
What is the best cordless hammer drill? A hammer drill is a versatile tool. Its main distinctive feature comes in a special mechanism responsible for bit motion. The latter is capable of not just rotational but reciprocating motions. This benefit of a hammer drill allows handling any materials like wood, metal, plastic, masonry and even concrete. Besides, the most advanced hammer drills feature higher performance which allows metal threading, fastener driving and undoing and drilling in harder materials.
Thus, versatility, compactness and affordability can be designated as the key factors of a high demand among customers both DIYers and professionals. The Dewalt DCD996B proves to be a “top gun” among other state-of-the art tools.
Why have I chosen this model? This high-quality tool from Dewalt features an advanced brushless technology which ensures a reliable and trouble-free operation for many years to come. The powerful motor enables faster operation and increased output power. The 20 V Li-ion Dewalt DCD996B also boasts a variable speed trigger thus making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. It can also run in 3 different modes as a conventional drill, screwdriver and a hammer drill.
This model also features a sturdy design due to its high-quality materials used. In particular, it consists of an all-metal transmission and a ratcheting chuck made from nitro-carburized metal. This hammer drill has a keyless chuck which is a friendly-user component due to fast and simple changing of bits without any additional tools and skills. Overall, it has been developed to satisfy even the most demanding expectations of its customers.
Revealing the secret of hammer drill success | Briefing
The modern descendants of an outdated hand brace have been subject to a continuous and long-lasting development. Nowadays, they have been upgraded to reliable and versatile power tools. In particular, a modern hammer drill can be used as a hammer, traditional drill, mixer drill at the lowest RPMs, a screwdriver, and additionally it can act as a sanding unit with the help of special attachments.
However, hammer drilling is a primary function of this tool, as its name implies. By the combination of hammering and drilling motions it can easily handle tougher materials. So, you will need just one tool for multiple operations, thus increasing efficiency. Besides, the working time will be considerably reduced, as well.
The modern battery-powered hammer drills are considered indispensable tools at a backyard, any location with no regular power supply or at some remote jobsites. The advanced models are very lightweight and similar in performance to powerful corded hammer drills.
In this regard, I’ve made a review of the best cordless hammer drills based on the performance and peculiarities of some models, distinguishing them from other counterparts on a current market. My recommendations will help you to make a right choice satisfying your demands to the full extent.
Cordless vs. corded hammer drills
Both corded and cordless hammer drills will help you to handle any construction or renovation job. However, cordless models should be preferred for the projects performed at remote locations with no access to power outlets.
Battery-powered hammer drills are portable and convenient tools. They grant the freedom of movements required to carry out any task faster with sufficient flexibility and comfort. The operation of a cordless model will not be restricted by a power cable or extension cord. And this is one of the key advantages of cordless drills over corded devices. This fact relates to safety issue, as well. Absence of a cord excludes the risks of any electric injuries of an operator, which can occur as a result of its damage or of a higher humidity of a surrounding.
However, one of the main downsides of cordless units is a limited battery life. That is, the battery should be periodically recharged, thus affecting a work pace. Nevertheless, the modern innovative battery technologies offer an outstanding capacity ensuring a continuous long-lasting operation of a cordless tool.
Thus, you should prefer cordless hammer drills to corded counterparts, unless you deal with heavy-duty projects like drilling of extremely hard materials.
Types of cordless hammer drills
As I’ve mentioned before, cordless hammer drills can be also successfully used for jobs related to fastener driving, drilling in wooden and metal materials and hammer drilling in hard materials like masonry. Due to advanced 18V and 20V systems it is possible to use the same batteries and chargers for any tool of the same voltage from a lineup of a particular manufacturer. Since cordless hammer drills are offered in many different varieties, it’s very important to be able to distinguish different types and determine the right one suitable for your applications. Let’s figure out the basics!
First of all, you should understand the difference between various types of batteries. Tools usually are as good as the batteries used. I want to distinguish three types which are most demanded on a current market: Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) and lithium-ion (Li-Ion) types.
(NiCd) batteries feature enough Amp-hr which can be stored for a continuous operation of a tool. Besides these batteries are the cheapest options. However, they have many disadvantages, as they are made of some toxic materials which require their further specific disposal. They come with a high memory effect which gradually reduces the maximum capacity after each recharge.
(NiMH) are lightweight and environmental-friendly batteries offered at comparatively affordable prices. They have a slight memory effect and can be operated during extended periods of time without recharging. However, it is not recommended to empty them completely as it can affect their capacity. Besides, these batteries are not suitable for low-temperature operation. Also they tend to self-discharge even at 35-41°F. Thus, it would be not the best idea to store them in a car trunk or in a garage during winter time.
(Li-Ion) batteries are in the forefront of the modern battery technologies. They are totally environmental-friendly and lightweight batteries with no memory effect. They can withstand a full load operation during extended periods of time. Such batteries are highly efficient with the most high energy storage capacity among other types of modern batteries. However, Li-Ion options are still sensitive to low temperatures and quite expensive.
Voltage is another important parameter of any battery. Generally speaking, the higher the voltage of a hammer drill, the more the torque it generates. However, you should bear in mind the following peculiarity. Nowadays, the models are offered in the range from 12 up to 36V. Nevertheless, some models with different voltage feature the same torque. The difference here will be in a number of battery cells. For instance, a 20V model has more cells than 18V option and a bigger capacity of a battery, accordingly. Consequently, the price for a tool will be higher.
What features should you consider to choose the right hammer drill? | Buyer’s Guide
Rated power. This value can vary from 300 up to 1500 Watt for a cordless hammer drill. The higher the power is the more advanced tool is considered to be. The professional-grade tools provide greater performance, while the small tools for household purposes ensure better mobility for usage in hard-to-reach areas due to their compact size and light weight.
Impact motion. This feature can be compared with a hammer action which allows efficient drilling of hard materials. It is measured in BPM (blows per minute) or IPM (impacts per minute). Tougher jobs will always require higher impact rates. So, think thoroughly about the scope of your duties before getting this or that tool.
Maximum drilling diameter. This parameter determines the maximum size of a hole which can be bored be means of a hammer drill. You should always observe the manual. In particular, install only those bits which can be accepted by a chuck in accordance with its design.
Chuck. It can be offered in key and keyless designs. The latter gives you opportunity of a tool-free changing of cutting attachments. However, a key chuck is deemed to be more reliable, especially for professional-grade hammer drills designed for heavy-duty applications.
Reverse. This function, also known as a back stroke, is designed for undoing of fasteners or for taking out of bits jammed in a hole.
Weight. It is a very important issue as hammer drills are classified as portable tools, thus they should have a light weight. However, hammer drills are heavier than standard drills due to more powerful motor and parts contributing to its performance. Cordless models are commonly known as even heavier tools due to an additional weight of a battery. The latter, in its turn, comes in lighter design these days, thus enhancing the convenience of its use. If you are going to use a hammer drill for DIY and home-based purposes, than get a less powerful but light-weight tool.
Variable speed control. The variety of speed ranges ensure versatility of a hammer drill as it can be used for various tasks and materials with this function. Commonly, the speed can be controlled by means of a special trigger.
Trusted Brands
It is pretty hard to purchase a reliable and high-quality tool on a current market. However, it doesn’t relate to its scarcity. On the contrary, there are too many decent tools which make it difficult to choose the best one among them. I’ve selected the most trusted brands in terms of reliability of their products.
Dewalt – its branded yellow-and-black color does a good job and identifies the manufacturer at a glance. The latter is considered to be one of the most reliable U.S. brands of power tools. Their hammer drills are not an exception. They are designed to withstand even the most heavy-duty projects.
Milwaukee - this U.S. manufacturer took its origin from 1924.The company designs and manufactures industrial equipment, power tools, hand tools and accessories covering the majority of the market segments. Their cordless hammer drills deserved a solid reputation of reliable tools, thus contributing to a growing demand among the customers worldwide.
Hilti — is a Liechtenstein multinational company with more than 80-year experience on the market. They are focusing on various industries offering equipment, raw materials and software. Their range of products consists also of cordless and corded tools, fittings and other comprehensive solutions and services to satisfy the needs of the most exacting customers.
Makita – is a well-known Japanese brand of gas- and power tools. Nowadays, they develop and manufacture their products at 8 facilities located on different continents. This fact proves a large-scale pace of the company. Their products are distributed in more than 160 countries and can be successfully used by both DIY amateurs and professionals.
Ryobi - is another Asian brand offering the broadest selection of power tools. In particular, they manufacture various hammer drills within a comparatively affordable price range. However, their tools feature plenty of innovative characteristics capable to meet the requirements of any customer.
Bosch – is a highly-recognizable German brand which supplies its products to more than 150 countries. The company manufactures a wide range of power tools. In particular, their tools can be distinguished by colors. Green hammer drills are offered for DIY jobs, and blue models are designed for heavy-duty applications.
Ridgid – the company was established in the U.S. in 1923 as a manufacturer of hand tools. Today they offer a broad selection of power tools. They are continuously developing the product mix, introducing new technologies and innovations. Thus they are upgrading the existent lineup and creating new products on a constant basis. Maybe, they are not so popular than their famous counterparts in the industry, but they truly deserve a thorough attention.
Best cordless hammer drills
1. DEWALT DCD996B
Dewalt has become a synonym to reliability for many customers around the world. All products from a huge variety of models proved its capacity for various applications, including professional and industrial levels.
The Dewalt DCD996B cordless hammer drill is declared by the manufacturer as a 2.8x faster device with the speed range up to 2,250 RPM and 38,250 BPM. All this becomes possible due to a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 820 Watts. It is up to 82% more powerful with up to 57% higher running time than the counterparts in its class.
This model has a dual voltage range, thus the maximum free-load battery voltage is 20 Volts; the nominal value equals to 18 Volts.
The device comes in an ergonomic and durable design featuring sturdy metal parts and comfortable handle grips. This hammer drill also has an integrated LED light with 3 modes, and a spotlight mode included.
Features
- RPM, Max: 2250
- BMP, Max: 38,250
- Weight (lbs): 4.7
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 4 x 10 x 8
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If you’re aspiring to an industrial-grade performance without considerable strains to your budget, the DEWALT DCD996B will be the best choice for money.
DEWALT DCD996B: Check the current price
2. DEWALT DCK299D1T1
Another outstanding product from Dewalt comes in a hammer drill and driver kit. Its primary distinctive feature is represented by an innovative Flexvolt battery. This state-of-the-art technology allows changing voltage in an automatic mode. Thus the Flexvolt battery is compatible with all 20V MAX tools. It can change voltage as soon as you install a battery at any 60V MAX or 120V MAX tools from DEWALT. Due to this feature, the DCK299D1T1 is capable of up to 4x runtime.
This kit includes a DCD996 hammer drill and a DCF887 1/4" impact driver. The DCD996 20V Max features an all-metal transmission with 3 speed settings up to 2000 RPM. Thus, fast and efficient drilling can be set for each particular material.
The hammer drill comes in an ergonomic and compact design with 3-mode LED. Along with an impact driver, the kit is also packed with a 20V/60V Li-ion battery, rapid charger, rotational handle and a carrying bag.
Features
- RPM, Max: 2000
- BMP, Max: 3600
- Weight (lbs): 4.7
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 6.7 x 9.7 x 15
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Dewalt DCK299D1T1 is the perfect hammer drill/driver set, especially when it comes to the advanced cordless technologies.
DEWALT DCK299D1T1: Check the current price
3. DEWALT DCH133B
This powerful beast from Dewalt also features a flexible 20V Max technology contributing to a higher efficiency. This model comes with a powerful brushless motor which enhancing durability of a tool and its suitability to heavy-duty applications, like concrete wall drilling. In particular its maximum drilling depth capacity amounts to 3/16-5/8 inch for concrete.
The device offers a no load speed of up to 1,500 RPM and 5,550 BMP. Besides, the speed level can be automatically maintained during the entire operation by means of its electronic system.
This hammer drill is equipped with a 2.6J mechanism which allows faster drilling than corded counterparts even in the hardest materials with no risk of tool damage.
Features
- RPM, Max: 1500
- BMP, Max: 5550
- Weight (lbs): 4.7
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 6.7 x 9.7 x 15
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This model can be an awesome alternative to the corded hammer drill. It’s a powerful device in a sturdy design which can be used under severe conditions both for inside and outside projects. Moreover, the innovative 20V battery allows longer running with no undesirable interruptions.
DEWALT DCH133B: Check the current price
4. Makita XPH12Z
Makita being one of the leaders on the power tool market offers a wide range of high-quality products for various applications.
The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion cordless hammer driver-drill is a versatile tool. It can be operated as a driver drill and hammer driver drill for boring holes in various materials. Its four-pole motor delivers enough torque to reach up to 2, 000 RPM and 28, 500 BPM at a high-speed setting.
This model comes in a compact and ergonomic design enhancing its comfortable operation during extended periods of time. The special XPT protection technology allows operating this drill under severe conditions as it features an increased dust and water resistance. Its dual LED lights illuminate even the darkest spots improving the accuracy of any work.
The Makita XPH12Z is a part of Makita 18V lithium-ion battery series, which has a unique slide-style technology. Besides, these batteries needs less time for recharging.
Features
- RPM, Max: 2,000
- BMP, Max: 30,000
- Weight (lbs): 3.19
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 3.6 x 7.8 x 9.5
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This versatile tool will be suitable for multiple overhead jobs at any ambient conditions due to its lightweight design and an extra protection system.
Makita Makita XPH12Z: Check the current price
5. Makita XPH07TB
Another front runner from Makita is a 18V LXT Lithium-Ion hammer driver-drill kit. A hammer drill is equipped with a powerful brushless motor which is capable of delivering up to 1,090 in. lbs. of torque and 31,500 BPM for the most challenging drilling and driving applications in various materials. Besides, the motor is electronically controlled to optimize the use of a battery power and thus increasing the running time up to 50%. More than that, the battery requires only 45 minutes to be fully recharged. And it is the fastest time for this category.
The tool comes in an ergonomic design with its long side handle for better convenience and stability even during a heavy-duty drilling.
Features
- RPM, Max: 1090
- BMP, Max: 31,500
- Weight (lbs): 5.9
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 6 x 19 x 8
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Thought the speed range of this model is not the highest one in its class, the Makita XPH07TB kit is a reliable option for efficient and smooth drilling/driving operations.
Makita XPH07TB: Check the current price
6. KIMO 20V CORDLESS DRILL KIT
This model can be operated in three modes as a screwdriver, drill only and a hammer drill. Its light all-copper motor delivers the torque to produce up to 1350 RPM. Besides, there are 2 speed settings which adopt the unit for various applications needed around the house. The unit features a keyless chuck a 21-position adjustable clutch for various jobs requiring different torque applied.
This hammer drill is a very compact tool which feature number of friendly-user functions like a forward/reverse switch, a build-in LED light and a keyless chuck. All these features contribute to easiness and efficiency of its handling and running.
This model is delivered together with a battery and a charger, and a set of accessories in a carrying case for convenient arrangement and storage.
Features
- RPM, Max: 1350
- Weight (lbs): 3.9
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 7 x 5 x 7
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I would recommend this tool to those DIY enthusiasts dealing with a household routine like home improvements or renovations on a constant basis. This tool will be suitable for any corresponding job with its 3-mode operation and a variable speed control.
K I M O.: Check the current price
Best-Selling Cordless Hammer Drills | Comparison Table
DEWALT DCD778L1 20V Max Cordless Compact Hammer Drill/Driver
- Brushless motor delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed
- Ergonomic comfort grip handle provides ideal balance and tool control
- Compact and has a lightweight design to fit into tight areas
- Led light with 20-second trigger release delay to provide increased visibility in dark or confined spaces
- 1 3.0Ah battery is 18% lighter than its predecessor (DCB200) and has a 3-year free service warranty
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit (CMCD711C2)
- 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
- Included V20 20V MAX* Lithium Batteries with high performance cells provides ample runtime and increased performance
- V20 20V MAX* Lithium charger provides a 60 minute or less charge time on included battery
- Compatible with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System. Clip and Accessories sold separately.
- 3 Year Limited Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Tool Only (DCH273B)
- Brushless motor for extended runtime and durability
- Active Vibration Control which significantly reduces vibration
- 2.1 Joules impact energy which provides corded power without the cord
- Retractable utility hook for convenient hanging and storage
- No Load Speed 0 - 1,100 rpm. Optimal Concrete Drilling-5/32 - 1/2 inch. Chuck Type-SDS+. Blows/Min- 0 - 4,600 bpm
- Battery & Charger Sold Separately
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill, Brushless, 3-Speed, Tool Only (DCD996B)
- High performance transmission for fast application speeds and improved run time
- High efficiency brushless motor delivers up to 57 percent more run time over brushed
- 0 38,250 BPM for fast drilling in masonry materials
- 3 Mode LED light with Spotlight mode
- Battery sold separately
- Battery & Charger Sold Separately
- Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts; Nominal voltage is 18
Rotary Hammer Drill, WAKYME SDS-Plus 1/2 inch 21V Cordless Demolition Hammer with 1400RPM, Variable Speed, 3-in-1...
- 【3-in-1 Drilling Method】WAKYME high-performance cordless motor features variable-speed settings, this tool can be easily speeded up from 900 BMP to 4600 BMP in seconds. You can switch between driving, drilling and hammer drilling modes as needed, which is convenient for drilling in hard materials such as wood, masonry, steel, walls, concrete.
- 【0~1400 RPM and Forward/Reverse Switching Switch】 The drilling no-load speed between 0~1400 RPM, through the variable trigger adjusted to complete various applications. The button on the hammer drill side can easily achieve clockwise or anti-clockwise rotating direction to help you tighten and loosen screws easily.
- 【21V Battery Pack & Fast Charger】 WAKYME provides two 4000mAh li-ion battery and a fast charger. The metal body has an intelligent protection device and heat dissipation function, which avoids high temperature and overcharge. Battery power indicator light remind charger in time, ensures the continued safe use of the battery.
- 【Ergonomic Design】The SDS Plus chuck allows for easy and secure bit changes to keep your project going. The 360° shockproof handle design can reduce hand fatigue and improve drilling accuracy on the working surface. When you are not using the hammer drill, the safety lock design makes the placement more secure. The unique heat dissipation system can effectively extend its service life.
SKIL 20V 1/2 Inch Hammer Drill, Includes 2.0Ah PWRCore 20 Lithium Battery and Charger - HD527802
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET THE JOB DONE—Hammer drill set includes a PWR Core 20 2. 0Ah Lithium Battery and 20V Charger.
- 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.
- 3-IN-1 MULTI-FUNCTION—Quickly transition between hammer, drill and screwdriver mode to save time.
- CHOOSE YOUR SPEED SETTING—Set to high speed for better efficiency and low speed for higher torque.
- Easy bit changes/2 inch keyless ratcheting chuck with auto spindle lock allows for quick bit changes.
- LED LIGHTING—Illuminates the work area when trigger is pressed, and light remains on 10 seconds after trigger is released.
- Longer run time & battery life—the PWR Core 20 Lithium battery has an innovative temperature management system to keep the battery cool and powering on through your project.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Rotary Hammer Drill Kit, D-Handle, 1-Inch (DCH133M2)
- An optimized 2.6J mechanism provides faster than corded Speed of Application
- Durable German Engineered mechanism for long service life, even in the hardest concrete
- DEWALT electronics allow the tool to maintain speed through the entire application without bogging down even with the largest bits
- Compact size allows access to space restricted areas
- 4.0Ah packs provide all day run time
Cordless Drill Driver Kit with 2 Batteries, WAKYME 21V Impact Drill 350 In-lb Torque 25+3 Clutch, 3/8" Keyless...
- 【Compact & Powerful】WAKYME 21V Max drill tool set is designed with all-copper double bearing gear motor: 350In-lb torque max provides strong load capacity. No-load speed 19000-23000rpm powerful impact drill driver offers you all the daily needs and accomplishes more than you ever expected. The lightweight handy drill makes everything is impossible.
- 【25+3 Clutch, 2-Variable Speed & 350In-lb Torque】WAKYME cordless drill/driver, with 25 adjustable clutch settings, step-less variable pressure trigger (2-speed: 0-450RPM,0-1550RPM) provide accurate control. 3 in 1 working mode (Hammer, Driver, Drill), 350In-lb torque(35N.M), no matter it is a household reconstruction, improvements, DIY handcrafts, renovation, garden work or auto repairs, this power drill is your good partner everyday drill/driver.
- 【No Interruption & Work Light】This impact cordless hammer drill comes with 2pcs 1500mAh Li-ion Batteries and 1-2H fast charger that can use for strong and steady power and endurable run time. The additional battery makes cordless screwdriver drill always ready to use without restriction. You can constantly work on your project. The lithium-ion drill driver in 21V-class with a front LED work light illuminates any dark workspace.
- 【3/8 Keyless Chuck & Forward/Reserve Control】This power drill is pretty easy and straightforward to use. Compact drill driver has a large 3/8’’(10mm) keyless chuck which provides an automatic spindle lock that enables one-hand changing with advance accessory compatibility. The Forward/Reverse switch allows you to either screw or replaces/remove bits on your purposes as well as lock the power drill driver.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Rotary Hammer Drill, D-Handle, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCH133B)
- Optimized 2.6J mechanism provides faster than corded Speed of Application
- DEWALT electronics allow the tool to maintain speed through the entire application without bogging down even with the largest bits
- Compact size allows access to space restricted areas
- Compact size allows access to space restricted areas
- Battery & Charger Sold Separately
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Rotary Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit, 1-Inch SDS Plus (DCK233P2)
- Dcf887 impact driver: DEWALT built Brushless motor and XR Lith-Ion batteries deliver more run time and capacity over standard units
- Dcf887 impact driver: 3-speed settings for optimized application versatility, precision drive in speed 1 for precision applications and added control
- Dch133 rotary hammer: optimized 2.6J mechanism provides faster than corded speed-of-application
- Dch133 rotary hammer: durable german engineered mechanism for long service life
- Includes (2) DCB205 5.0Ah 20V max* batteries
FAQ
A cordless or battery-powered hammer drill run by an inserted rechargeable battery instead of a regular power outlet. The cordless hammer drills have been commonly less powerful than their corded counterparts. But today with an introduction of innovative battery technologies, portable cordless models become a decent alternative to the hammer drills which mobility is restricted by a power cord.
Thus, a cordless hammer drill serves as a traditional drill which can be operated as a hammer drill or impact driver, as well. The hammering action of this tool has considerably enlarged the capacity of this tool. For instance, it can be successfully used for masonry or lower-grade concrete drilling. However, with its high versatility a hammer drill is a compact and affordable tool in comparison with a heavy-duty rotary hammer.
