Best Hammer Drills of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Hammer drills are a versatile and powerful tool that every DIY enthusiast or professional contractor should have in their arsenal. These drills are specifically designed to effortlessly bore through tough materials like concrete, brick, or stone. With their unique hammering action, they provide a rapid and forceful impact that helps break up the toughest surfaces. Equipped with adjustable speed settings, ergonomic handles, and easy-to-use controls, hammer drills offer precision and control during drilling operations. Whether you are working on a home improvement project or tackling heavy-duty construction tasks, a hammer drill is an essential tool that ensures efficient and effective results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill DCD806B Cover #TOP 1
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill DCD806B
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Milwaukee 2904-20 12V Hammer Drill/Driver Cover #TOP 2
Milwaukee 2904-20 12V Hammer Drill/Driver
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Cordless Hammer Drill Cover #TOP 3
DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Cordless Hammer Drill
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Hammer Drills

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill DCD806B

DCD806B
Black, Yellow
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill DCD806B Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill (Tool Only) (DCD806B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill is a powerful tool designed to handle tough tasks with ease. Its two-speed settings give you control over the speed for different jobs, helping you work faster and more precisely. The drill’s advanced anti-rotation system protects you by stopping the tool if it starts to twist unexpectedly, keeping you safe during use. Plus, it delivers up to 109% more power compared to previous models, so you can tackle more demanding projects without strain. Whether you’re a professional or a DIYer, this drill offers the speed, power, and safety features you need for efficient work.

What We Like
Strong performance
Long battery life
Heavy duty torque
Auto turn off safety
Anti-rotation feature
What We Don't Like
Packaging concerns
Missing accessories
#TOP 2

Milwaukee 2904-20 12V Hammer Drill/Driver

2904-20
Red/Black
Milwaukee 2904-20 12V Hammer Drill/Driver Cover
Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel. 1/2 Hammer Drill/Driver

The Milwaukee 2904-20 12V Hammer Drill/Driver is a powerful and durable tool with a 1/2" all-metal chuck, carbide teeth, and mechanical clutch for consistent driving of various fasteners. It boasts unmatched performance with long battery runtime and a hammer drill mode for fast drilling into tough materials like brick, block or concrete. The all-metal belt clip makes it easy to carry around.

What We Like
Excellent torque and power
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Durable build quality
Versatile for heavy-duty tasks
Reliable battery performance
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavier than older models
Minor cosmetic imperfections on arrival

DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Cordless Hammer Drill

DCD799B
Black/Yellow/Sliver
DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Cordless Hammer Drill Cover
DEWALT DCD799B 20V MAX* ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Brushless Lithium-Ion 1/2 in. Cordless Hammer Drill (Tool Only)

The DEWALT Compact Hammer Drill is a powerful tool designed to tackle tough jobs in tight spaces. With a compact size of 6.49 inches, it allows you to access hard-to-reach areas easily. You can get up to 14% more power and up to 1,650 RPMs, making it versatile for various drilling applications. The high bit retention with a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck ensures your bits stay securely in place. With 552 UWO and up to 28,050 BPMs, this drill can handle challenging tasks effortlessly.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Solid and reliable build
Efficient brushless motor
Versatile hammer drill function
Improved chuck design
What We Don't Like
A bit heavy
#TOP 4

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill

DCD1007B
Yellow
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/2 Inch Cordless Hammer Drill, Bare Tool Only (DCD1007B)

The DEWALT Hammer Drill is designed to handle tough jobs with power and ease. Its strong 20V MAX motor lets you work on demanding tasks without slowing down. For your safety, it includes an anti-rotation system that stops the drill if it starts to spin uncontrollably, and a red LED warns you when this feature is active. The drill’s compact design helps you reach tight spaces comfortably, making your work smoother. Plus, with a 3-speed all-metal transmission, you can adjust the drill’s speed for better control and longer battery life, giving you more efficiency on the job.

What We Like
Exceptional power and torque
Anti-rotation safety feature
Long-lasting battery life
Versatile for various materials
Adjustable LED work light
What We Don't Like
Heavier than most drills
Higher price point
#TOP 5

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill

DCD996B
Multi
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Hammer Drill Driver Brushless, Heavy Duty 1/2", 3-Speed, Tool Only (DCD996B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill features a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 75% more runtime compared to 18V NiCad brushed motors. It has a heavy-duty chuck with carbide inserts for superior bit gripping strength. The 3-Mode LED provides lighting in dark or confined spaces up to 20X brighter than the previous model, while the LED Spotlight Mode has a 20-minute shutoff function, allowing for extended work time in dark or confined spaces.

What We Like
Exceptional drilling power
Long battery life with 5Ah
Durable and reliable build
Comfortable ergonomic design
Bright LED work light
What We Don't Like
Chuck replacement inconvenient
Button occasionally sticks
#TOP 6

Milwaukee 3404-20 12V Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver

3404-20
Red/Black
Milwaukee 3404-20 12V Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver Cover
Milwaukee Electric - M12 Fuel. 1/2 Hammer Drill-Driver

The Milwaukee 3404-20 is a subcompact hammer drill driver with a brushless motor, delivering the power to complete a wide range of applications. It is the fastest drilling and driving tool under load and weighs 2.6 lbs, making it easy to carry on a tool belt and reducing fatigue during the work day. It features a 1/2" all-metal chuck for maximum durability, grip and bit retention, and a mechanical clutch for consistency in driving different types of fasteners.

What We Like
Powerful
Compact
Fast delivery
What We Don't Like
Not as powerful as desired
#TOP 7

Milwaukee 2904-22 12V Hammer Drill/Driver Kit

2904-22
Red/Black
Milwaukee 2904-22 12V Hammer Drill/Driver Kit Cover
Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel. 1/2 Hammer Drill-Driver KIT

The Milwaukee 2904-22 12V Hammer Drill/Driver Kit features a 1/2" all-metal chuck with carbide teeth, mechanical clutch, hammer drill mode, and all-metal belt clip. The chuck provides maximum durability, grip, and bit retention, while the mechanical clutch allows for consistent driving of a range of fasteners. With the 5.0Ah batteries, this kit boasts unmatched performance in terms of runtime. The hammer drill mode allows for fast drilling into brick, block, or concrete, and the all-metal belt clip adds portability to the kit.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Long battery life
Durable and robust design
Fast charging
Versatile tool compatibility
What We Don't Like
May be overkill for light tasks
US charger may need adapter

DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill, 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill

DCH273B
Multi
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill, 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B)

The DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill is a cordless rotary hammer drill with 2.1 Joules of impact energy that allows for fast drilling in concrete. It has a SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL System that reduces the vibration felt by the user, compared to rotary hammers without this feature. The lightweight design makes it ideal for various applications such as rod hanging, seismic and safety attachments, cable tray and strut mounting, clamp mounting, and rail mounting. It comes with a rotating dial to set the tool to a specific application mode: Drill, Hammer Drill, or Chip.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Cordless convenience
Versatile application modes
Impressive battery life
Robust build quality
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavy
Possible overheating on heavy tasks
#TOP 9

Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill with 6pcs Bit

HAHD075
Black
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill with 6pcs Bit Cover
Hammerhead 7.5-Amp 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Hammer Drill with 6pcs Bit - HAHD075

The Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Hammer Drill is a powerful corded drill that can handle even the most demanding projects. With its keyless 1/2 inch metal chuck, it provides great convenience for frequent bit changes. This 2-in-1 multi-function drill allows you to easily switch between drilling and rotary hammer, so you can select the right function for each application in an instant. The variable speed trigger with preset selector and lock on feature gives you increased control and allows for continuous operations. With its soft grip handle, this drill offers maximum comfort while you work. Whether you're drilling into wood, metal, or concrete, the Hammerhead 7.5-Amp Hammer Drill is a reliable tool that will help you get the job done.

What We Like
Affordable price
Good power
Solid build quality
Effective hammer action
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Low-quality included bits
Chuck can be tricky
#TOP 10

VEVOR Demolition Jack Hammer

Orange
VEVOR Demolition Jack Hammer Cover
VEVOR Demolition Jack Hammer, MAX 2200W Electric Jackhammer Heavy Duty, 1400 BPM Concrete Breaker 4pcs Chisels Bit Chipping W/Case, Gloves

The VEVOR Jack Hammer comes with four replacement chisels made from heat-treated alloy steel. It offers exceptional performance with 2200W power and 1350BPM, making it perfect for various tasks like demolition and chipping. The 360° rotary handle provides better control, while the vibration-proof design ensures a comfortable grip. With maximum comfort features like vibration control technology and cooling holes, this jackhammer helps reduce muscle fatigue and ensures a secure work experience.

What We Like
Exceptional value for price
Heavy duty performance
Effective for demolition
Durable and reliable
Comes with useful attachments
What We Don't Like
Heavy tool weight
Poor instruction manual
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Hammer Drills That Are Right for You

Introduction

Power hammer drills are an essential tool for any serious DIY enthusiast or professional contractor. These powerful tools make it easy to drill through tough materials like concrete and masonry, allowing you to quickly and easily install anchors, fasteners, and other fixtures. However, with so many power hammer drills on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the key factors to consider when choosing a power hammer drill.

Power and Speed

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a power hammer drill is the amount of power it offers. This is typically measured in watts or amps, and the higher the number, the more powerful the drill will be. In general, a more powerful drill will be able to handle tougher materials and larger drill bits, making it a better choice for heavy-duty tasks.

In addition to power, you'll also want to consider the speed of the drill. This is typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), and the higher the number, the faster the drill will be able to spin. A faster drill will be able to drill through materials more quickly, making it a good choice for tasks that require a lot of drilling.

Chuck Size and Clutch Settings

The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the drill bit in place, and the size of the chuck will determine the size of the drill bit that you can use. Most power hammer drills have a chuck size of either 1/2 inch or 3/8 inch, and both sizes are suitable for most tasks. However, if you plan on using very large drill bits, you'll need a drill with a larger chuck size.

Another important factor to consider is the number of clutch settings on the drill. The clutch is a mechanism that allows you to control the amount of torque (or twisting force) that the drill applies to the material you're drilling into. A drill with more clutch settings will give you more control over the drilling process, making it easier to avoid damaging the material or the drill bit.

Additional Features

In addition to the basic features mentioned above, there are a few other things to look for when choosing a power hammer drill. For example, some drills come with a built-in level to help you ensure that your drilling is straight and even. Others come with a built-in light to help you see what you're doing in low-light situations. And still others come with a carrying case or storage bag to help you keep your drill and accessories organized.

Price and Warranty

Finally, you'll want to consider the price and warranty of the power hammer drill you're considering. In general, more expensive drills tend to offer more power, speed, and features, but this isn't always the case. So, be sure to read reviews and compare the specs of different drills to make sure you're getting a good deal.

As for the warranty, most power hammer drills come with a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Be sure to read the fine print and understand what's covered and what's not before you make your purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a power hammer drill is a big decision, and there are several factors to consider. Be sure to consider the power, speed, chuck size, clutch settings, and additional features of the drill, as well as the price and warranty. By taking the time to do your research and compare your options, you can find the perfect power hammer drill for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a hammer drill good for?

A hammer drill is primarily used for drilling in concrete and masonry. It delivers more power through a hammering action applied directly to the bit. The hammering function can be turned off, allowing the tool to function like a standard drill for other materials.

2. What is the difference between a hammer drill and a non-hammer drill?

The main difference between a hammer drill and a non-hammer drill is that a hammer drill has a hammering option for drilling into hard materials like masonry and concrete. A non-hammer drill functions at a consistent speed for drilling holes, while a hammer drill delivers a hammering action to provide more power.

3. When should you not use a hammer drill?

A hammer drill may not be powerful enough for drilling holes larger than 1/2-inch in masonry or when working with tougher materials like concrete. In these cases, a rotary hammer is usually recommended.

4. What are the disadvantages of a hammer drill?

One disadvantage of a hammer drill is its weight, which can put strain on the wrist during extended use. If you anticipate working with a hammer drill for long periods, taking occasional breaks to rest your wrist may be necessary.

Editor's Notes

During our hammer drill research, we found 24 hammer drill products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 69,613 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hammer drills list. We found that most customers choose hammer drills with an average price of $136.37.

The hammer drills are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hammer drills, including DEWALT, Milwaukee, Hammerhead, VEVOR. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 116 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Hammer Drills Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand DEWALT Milwaukee DEWALT DEWALT DEWALT Milwaukee Milwaukee DEWALT Hammerhead VEVOR
Power Source Battery Powered - Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered, Corded Electric Battery Powered Corded Electric AC/DC
Maximum Rotational Speed 2000 RPM - 1650 RPM 0.75 rps 2000 RPM 1500 RPM 2100 RPM 1100 RPM 3000 RPM 1400 RPM
Voltage 20 Volts - 20 20 Volts 20 Volts 220 Volts 12 Volts 20 Volts 120 110 Volts
Amperage 5 Amps - 4 Amps 5 Amps 16 Microamps 12 Milliamps 5 Amps - 7.5 Amps 1350 Amps
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy