Whether you're drilling into concrete, brick, or masonry, a hammer drill is one of the most versatile tools in your kit. Unlike a standard drill that only rotates, a hammer drill adds a rapid pounding action that helps the bit break through tough materials. This makes it the go-to tool for electricians running conduit through block walls, plumbers anchoring pipe hangers, HVAC techs mounting equipment brackets, and contractors installing Tapcons in concrete.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about choosing the best hammer drill for your trade. We will break down the key specs that matter, explain the difference between hammer drills and rotary hammers, and highlight top picks from brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and FLEX.

Before buying, it is important to understand the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer. Both tools pound the bit while spinning, but they work very differently inside.

Hammer Drill:

• Uses two ridged discs to create a vibrating hammer action
• Best for holes up to 1/2 inch in brick, block, and light concrete
• Typically delivers 20,000 to 40,000 BPM (blows per minute)
• Uses standard round shank drill bits
• Can double as a regular drill for wood and metal
• More compact and lightweight

Rotary Hammer:

• Uses a piston mechanism to drive the bit with much greater force
• Best for holes larger than 1/2 inch and hardened concrete
• Typically delivers 3,000 to 6,000 BPM but with much more impact energy
• Requires SDS-Plus or SDS-Max bits
• Often has a hammer-only mode for light chiseling
• Larger, heavier, and more expensive

Torque (in-lbs):

Torque measures rotational force. For a hammer drill, higher torque means better ability to drill large holes and drive big fasteners. Entry-level models deliver around 480 to 550 in-lbs. Pro-grade hammer drills typically offer 700 to 1,400 in-lbs of torque. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hammer Drill (2904-20) and FLEX 24V Hammer Drill with Turbo (FX1271T-Z) both deliver industry-leading torque for the toughest applications.

Speed (RPM):

RPM refers to how fast the bit spins. Most hammer drills offer two speed settings. Low speed (0-500 to 0-650 RPM) provides more torque for driving and heavy drilling. High speed (1,700 to 2,500 RPM) is better for fast drilling. The FLEX FX1271T delivers up to 2,500 RPM, making it one of the fastest in its class.

Blows Per Minute (BPM):

BPM measures how fast the hammer mechanism strikes. More blows per minute generally means faster drilling in masonry. Professional hammer drills typically deliver 28,000 to 40,000 BPM. The Makita XPH14Z reaches 31,500 BPM, while the DeWalt DCD805B delivers up to 34,000 BPM.

Size and Weight:

Compact size matters when working in tight spaces or overhead. The Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Hammer Drill (3602-20) measures just 5.8 inches and weighs only 2.3 lbs without the battery. DeWalt's DCD798B comes in at 6.93 inches. For electricians and plumbers working in panel boxes and cramped mechanical rooms, a shorter tool means easier access.

Brushless Motor:

Brushless motors deliver longer runtime, more power, and longer tool life compared to brushed motors. They also run cooler and require less maintenance. Every professional-grade hammer drill on this list features a brushless motor.

Cordless hammer drills give you the freedom to work anywhere without dragging cords. Here are the top picks in the most popular voltage class.

Milwaukee calls this the industry's most powerful hammer drill, and the specs back it up. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers enough power to complete 2-9/16 inch self-feed holes in dense woods. At only 6.9 inches long, it is also the most compact cordless drill in its class. The AutoStop feature prevents over-rotation in bind-up situations, protecting both you and the tool.

Key Features:

• POWERSTATE brushless motor for maximum power under load
• AutoStop control mode for enhanced safety
• 1/2 inch all-metal chuck with carbide teeth
• REDLINK PLUS intelligence protects from overloads
• Compatible with 250+ M18 tools

DeWalt's most powerful 20V MAX hammer drill features an Anti-Rotation System that shuts the tool down in bind-up situations. The 3-speed transmission gives you more control than a standard 2-speed drill, with an all-important middle gear for when high speed is not quite enough. The adjustable 3-position LED provides excellent visibility in dim work areas.

• 3-speed high-performance transmission
• Anti-Rotation System with LED indicator
• 1/2 inch nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts
• Tool Connect ready for asset management
• 7.5 inch head length

The FlexVolt Advantage technology gives you up to 42% more power when you pair this hammer drill with a FlexVolt battery instead of a standard 20V MAX pack. The heavy-duty 1/2 inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts provides superior bit gripping strength. The 3-mode LED is 20x brighter than previous DeWalt models.

The XPH14Z delivers a full 1,250 in-lbs of max torque and 31,500 BPM for fast hammer drilling in masonry. This drill sits at the top of Makita's LXT lineup with a design that is 14% shorter than the previous model. The Star Protection technology allows the tool and battery to communicate in real time to prevent overloading and overheating.

Key Features:

• 1,250 in-lbs of max torque
• 0-31,500 BPM for masonry drilling
• 2-speed transmission (0-550 and 0-2,100 RPM)
• All-metal 1/2 inch self-ratcheting chuck
• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for dust and water resistance

Bosch's PROFACTOR series delivers 975 in-lbs of max torque and 31,500 BPM in a tool that weighs just 3.4 lbs bare. The KickBack Control feature reduces the risk of injury from sudden rotational torque reaction in a bind-up. The precision clutch with 25 settings helps prevent fastener damage during driving.

Key Features:

• 975 in-lbs max torque
• KickBack Control safety feature
• Connected-Ready with Bosch Toolbox app compatibility
• AMPShare system for multi-brand battery compatibility
• Works with PRO+GUARD dust solutions for OSHA compliance

FLEX entered the professional tool market with this hammer drill and immediately set the performance benchmark. With 1,400 in-lbs of industry-leading torque, 2,500 RPM, and 40,000 IPM, this drill dominates in both wood and concrete applications. The Turbo Mode gives you an extra boost when you need it, and you can turn it off for more control on precision work.

For trade pros who want FLEX quality at a lower price point, the FX1251 delivers 750 in-lbs of torque and exceptional runtime. The sensor-free brushless motor eliminates friction for higher efficiency. The 1/2 inch all-metal ratcheting chuck provides reliable bit retention even under heavy loads.

When you need a hammer drill for overhead work or tight spaces, a 12V model delivers the perfect balance of power and portability.

The M12 FUEL hammer drill delivers 480 in-lbs of torque in an ultra-compact package. It is ideal for electricians working in panel boxes and HVAC techs drilling into metal and masonry in tight mechanical rooms.

At just 6.6 inches long, the XTREME 12V hammer drill is compact and performance-packed. It delivers 250 UWO and 25,500 BPM to handle most drilling applications. The bright LED positioned on the foot illuminates all work areas.

Bosch's 12V hammer drill features the shortest head length in its class at only 2.3 lbs. The 20 clutch settings give you precise torque adjustment for driving screws, and the LED light illuminates dark work spaces. The fuel gauge makes battery management easy.

When you have access to power and need consistent performance all day long, a corded hammer drill never runs out of juice. They are also more affordable than cordless kits.

The HD21-2 delivers outstanding power with a 9.2 Amp motor that handles all masonry drilling applications. With up to 51,000 BPM, this hammer drill provides serious productivity in concrete and masonry. The dual-mode selector easily converts from rotation-only to hammer-drill mode.

The HP2050 features a powerful 6.6 Amp motor with variable 2-speed (0-1,200 and 0-2,900 RPM). The torque limiting clutch automatically disengages gears if the bit binds, protecting the tool from damage. At only 5.6 lbs, it is lightweight enough for extended use.

The DWE5010 is a budget-friendly option with a 7.0 Amp motor that provides high performance and overload protection. At 4.3 lbs and 10.3 inches long, it is lightweight and compact for extended use. The 360-degree side handle with depth rod offers greater control and accuracy.

Use Carbide-Tipped Masonry Bits:

Standard drill bits will not cut it in concrete and masonry. Look for tungsten carbide-tipped bits designed specifically for hammer drilling. These are usually marked with a brick or block symbol on the packaging.

Let the Tool Do the Work:

Apply steady, moderate pressure and let the hammer mechanism break up the material. Pushing too hard actually reduces the effectiveness of the hammering action and can overheat the bit.

Clear the Hole Periodically:

When drilling deep holes, pull the bit out periodically to clear debris from the flutes. This prevents dust buildup that can jam the bit and overheat the tool.

Use the Side Handle:

The side handle gives you better control and helps manage torque reaction. This is especially important when drilling larger holes where the bit could grab and spin the drill.

Match the Speed to the Material:

Use lower speeds for harder materials and larger bits. Higher speeds work better for smaller diameter holes in softer masonry. Most hammer drills have variable speed triggers that let you dial in the right speed.

Whether you're an electrician running conduit through block, a plumber anchoring pipe hangers, an HVAC tech mounting equipment brackets, or a contractor setting dozens of Tapcons a day, there is a hammer drill on this list that fits your needs. 

The compact models from Milwaukee and DeWalt excel in tight mechanical rooms and panel boxes, while the high-powered options from FLEX and Makita dominate on heavy-duty jobsite tasks. Choose the right tool for your trade, pair it with quality masonry bits, and you'll be able to drill cleaner holes faster and with less effort.