9 Best SDS Hammer Drills (High-Quality Picks) 2024 Reviews

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Hammer drills provide a rapid succession of blows which can be ideal for masonry and rock. SDS hammers are a type of hammer drill with even more power for your project.

Typically SDS hammer drills come with a larger price tag, we’re here to help ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.  Keep reading for an in-depth buyers guide, and reviews of some of our favorite SDS hammer drills!

 

Comparison List of High-Quality SDS Hammer Drills

Before we begin, here’s a quick comparison list we’ve compiled for you. It brings together our top-rated products in brief.

 

The Best 9 Hammer SDS Drills on the Market (Updated)

1. Makita HR2475 1″ Rotary Hammer SDS Drill

 

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This drill comes from one of the most dynamic and high-quality brands on the market. It is powered by a 7 amp motor, making it the most suitable for achieving the best results in demanding tasks and applications in the workshop.

It ensures gear damage is stopped through a torque limiting clutch that disengages automatically when the bits bind. Its sequential impact timing ability minimizes bits from overlapping, leading to faster drilling speeds.

This drill will give you more power and last longer due to its interlocking steel laminations and dual ball bearing armature capabilities.

More Features and Benefits

It also has three modes of operation, which boosts its ability to perform multiple applications.

The drill is comfortable and easy to control since it has an ergonomic D-shaped handle with a soft grip made of rubber. Its one-touch sliding chuck also allows for quick bit changing.

 

2. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill

 

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This drill comes with an integrated dust extractor that is best for drilling and chipping work. It is lightweight and easy to handle while working.

It is one of the few machines that provides corded power without the cord. Also, this drill has an extended run time and durability because of its brushless motor.

If you are looking for a comfortable drill to maximize productivity, then this one should be your choice. It reduces vibrations during work since it is equipped with an active vibration control system.

More Features and Benefits

This drill is easy to hang and store as it has a retractable utility hook. It’s important to note that batteries used in this drill are sold separately.

This is the ideal drill known for overhead applications. It maximizes productivity as seen by its outstanding power-to-weight ratio.

 

3. BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme SDS Drill

 

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This drill is powered by a 7.5 amp motor which produces plenty of energy to maximize productivity when working.

The main feature you need to know about is its three modes of operation. You can use the rotary hammer, rotary only, or hammer only mode. Additionally, it has vibration control to reduce noise.

Its D-handle enables you to carry out downward and overhead drilling applications while providing maximum optimal control. In addition, the drill will optimize chiseling angles with its Vario lock positioning technology.

You can also use the pro guard dust solutions with this drill to ensure a smooth operation.

More Features and Benefits

It is fitted with a rotating brush plate that balances power in reverse and forward motions.

The hammer hook also helps in quick storage during use. It offers dust protection and optimal energy wits SDS-plus bit system.

 

4. Milwaukee Cordless Rotary Hammer SDS Plus Drill

 

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This drill comes with a powerful 18V spinner that guarantees you harder drills and faster hits while working. With this drill, you will experience confidence since there are no cords to get in your way as you work.

There is a long life span due to its heavily protected outer body. This outer shell is mainly made up of aluminum to inspire great confidence and make it durable. Therefore, you will save money on quick repairs or replacement.

It is also fitted with a compact ergonomic design that increases comfort during application. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t include batteries during purchase.

More Features and Benefits

It has a red link plus intelligence system that provides an advanced overload of digital protection, increasing performance under load. Its 26 mm masonry drilling capacity delivers maximum performance.

The drill is dynamic and is known for achieving fast drills. You will get value for your money with this one.

 

5. Makita XRH08Z 18V X2 LXT SDS Drill

 

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This drill is powered by two LXT batteries combined with a brushless motor to help you achieve high speeds and maximum power. You are assured of maximum efficiency due to its advanced engineered rotary hammer.

You will not have to deal with gear damage since its torque limiting clutch disengages gears if the bits bind. You are assured that you will get maximum value and a durable drill.

It also comes fitted with electric brakes to help you maximize productivity during application. Along with that, it comes with a variable speed dial and trigger to match the application with the required speeds.

More Benefits and Features

This drill illuminates your work area with its built-in LED light. This will ensure you do your work with ultimate precision. If you’re bothered by dust during the application, this is your best choice since it comes fitted with dust extraction capabilities.

Finally, it offers you great comfort through its anti-vibration technology.

 

6. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer SDS Drill

 

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What we like about this drill is that it includes two 20V Max 5.0ah batteries. Therefore, downtime is greatly reduced, enabling you to finish your work with no hitches. You will love its ability to provide power without a cord due to its 2.1 joules impact energy.

It has a brushless motor which provides an extended runtime and durability. This means you can achieve more work with less power while knowing the device is safe from fast wear and tear.

The drill will give you much-needed comfort and productivity due to its active vibration capabilities. This increases your focus and allows you to achieve high rates of workload.

More Feature and Benefits

Storage and hanging will not be a problem since it has a retractable utility hook. The device comes with an instruction guide which makes it easier to operate if you’re a first time user.

 

7. ENEACRO 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Drill

 

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The ENEACRO SDS-Plus drill has a powerful 12.5A motor that is designed for heavy-duty projects involving concrete and metal works. It enables you to finish work with ease and precision. It features a 200 degrees Celsius wire motor that helps achieve long working hours.

The drill has a dust proof system that enables you to work properly since dust can’t reach the motor. You will enjoy its humanization design since the safety clutch protection helps prevent slipping and ultimately avoids injuries.

Its double function design allows for more service life compared with a single function design, so you shall save money in the long run.

More Features and Benefits

The SDS-Plus chuck ensures efficient and safe bit changes to keep projects advancing.  Its 360-degree adjustable handle reduces the levels of fatigue while providing perfect strikes in narrow areas during application.

You will not have problems controlling this drill since it has an upgraded double-layer vibration damping technology.

 

8. Ironton Heavy-Duty SDS Max Rotary Hammer Drill

 

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This rotary hammer drill has a powerful 1,200 watt, 10.5 amp, 110V motor which helps you use less energy during application. With rotations of up to 500 per minute, the drill is an average performer in the market.

This drill can power itself through almost all materials. Its anti-vibration technology makes it more efficient in fast drilling while saving energy.

It also has dual functionality. You can use it as a drill or as an inline rotary hammer. It is fitted with a safety clutch to prevent accidents when bits bend during drilling hard materials.

More Features and Benefits

The chisel bits are secure due to the advanced quick-change SDS max bit system. It delivers 6.6 ft-lbs of impact energy, completing tasks with lesser time. It accepts the industry-standard SDS Max bits, hence increases compatibility and eases finding original drilling bits.

 

9. VonHaus Rotary SDS Hammer Drill

 

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The VonHaus drill is an 850 RPM machine that operates on a 10 amp motor which is important in the heavy-duty use application in steel and masonry works. It is advantageous since it comes with three functional modes for you to choose from.

You can chisel, hammer drill, or drill only depending on the desired outcome. Its 360 degrees swivel handle has a textured grip to ensure maximum comfort and control.

However, it’s important to note that the batteries are sold separately.

More Features and Benefits

Compared to the other drills, the light weight of this drill will allow you to work for longer periods without feeling fatigued.

 This machine is good for drilling in hard surfaces for shorter periods. What we like about this drill is that it is relatively cheap compared to the others.

 We would greatly encourage a starter to try this one since it will guarantee value for your money.

 

Buyers Guide for the Best SDS Hammer Drill

Buying an SDS hammer drill can be a daunting task since there are many varieties and brands to choose from. However, we have compiled a list of very important factors to consider before settling on your purchase.

Power

When purchasing an SDS hammer drill, you should check on the amperage to find out which is the best depending on the use intended.

The higher the amperage, the more power a drill has in the workshop. The drill speed increases when the machine has high power.

Accessories

As we have noted, some drills have batteries during purchase while others don’t. You have to find out which accessories are being offered or missing during purchase.

Corded or Cordless

Some users prefer cordless over corded hammer drills. The corded drills are more reliable as long as electricity is available. On the other hand, the cordless drills can’t go dead on you as long as you have extra batteries.

Comfort

It’s important to choose an SDS hammer drill that comes with a soft grip handle with an ergonomic design to ensure maximum comfort. It’s also important to choose one that has fewer vibrations to ensure maximum productivity.

Ease of Use

New users should consider buying an SDS hammer drill that has simple instructions to follow. Furthermore, drilling experts need equipment that is not difficult to handle at first encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Now it’s time to respond to some of the commonly asked questions about these drills.

Why is an SDS drill better than a hammer drill?

The SDS drills can drill at a faster rate and can make larger holes.

How do I choose a hammer drill?

When choosing a hammer drill, it’s important to identify the size of the hole you want to drill since all of them have different ranges and abilities.

What is the difference between SDS and SDS-Plus?

The SDS chuck plus is an improvement from the initial original SDS system. The SDS-plus can do heavier masonry work than the original SDS system.

Best Pick Overall

In our view, the leading SDS drill is the Makita HR2475 1″ Rotary Hammer SDS Drill. We like it because it is multi-functional and performs the best. It also has good safety features added to it.

Final Thought

Finding the perfect SDS hammer drill is not easy. The above featured drills are the best in their respective fields. All of them are versatile and durable, and therefore, you shall enjoy the drilling experience. The above guide shall help you make a good purchase decision depending on your ability and required needs.