Best Rotary Hammers of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Rotary hammers are versatile and powerful tools designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling tasks. These tools combine the functions of a hammer drill and a chisel, making them ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Rotary hammers are commonly used in construction, demolition, and renovation projects, as they can effortlessly drill through concrete, masonry, and other tough materials. With their ergonomic design and advanced features, such as variable speed control and anti-vibration technology, rotary hammers offer precision, efficiency, and durability for any project requiring high-impact drilling.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill, Cordless Cover #TOP 1
DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill, Cordless
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill, D-Handle, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCH133B) Cover #TOP 2
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill, D-Handle, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCH133B)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill, 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Cover #TOP 3
DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill, 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rotary Hammers

DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill, Cordless

DCH172B
Black, Yellow
One Size
DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill, Cordless Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 5/8 in., Tool Only (DCH172B)

The DEWALT 20V SDS MAX Hammer Drill is a cordless tool that offers 1.4 Joules of impact energy for fast drilling in concrete. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for various tasks such as rod hanging, concrete forming, cable tray and strut mounting, clip and bracket mounting, and railing mounting. The drill features a brushless motor and durable German-engineered mechanism for efficient performance and runtime. Additionally, the SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL System reduces vibration felt by the user at the handles compared to rotary hammers without this feature.

What We Like
Professional-grade power
Cordless mobility
Lightweight and compact design
Excellent for masonry
Vibration dampening
What We Don't Like
Less power with small battery
Not ideal for heavy-duty jobs
#TOP 2

DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill, D-Handle, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCH133B)

DCH133B
Yeif
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Rotary Hammer Drill, D-Handle, 1-Inch, Tool Only (DCH133B) Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer with D-Handle, Bare Tool Only (DCH133B)

The DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill is a powerful cordless tool designed for fast and efficient drilling. Its optimized 2.6J mechanism delivers faster speed of application than corded drills, while DEWALT electronics maintain speed throughout the application without bogging down. The German-engineered brushless mechanism is durable and built to last, even in the hardest concrete. The drill's compact size allows for easy access to tight spaces. This tool is perfect for professionals who need a reliable and efficient drill for their jobs. With the DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill, you can get the job done quickly and efficiently, without sacrificing power or performance.

What We Like
Long battery life
Powerful performance
Cordless convenience
Easy to use
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
No built-in work light
Multiple batteries for large jobs
#TOP 3

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
Long battery life
Ergonomic design
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavy
Head may overheat with core bits
#TOP 4

Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V Rotary Hammer

2912-20
Black Red Grey
Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V Rotary Hammer Cover
Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1" Sds Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer

The Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V Rotary Hammer is a cordless tool that can boost productivity with its fastest drilling capability. The SDS Plus Rotary Hammer has AUTOSTOP Control that can sense bind-ups to prevent damage. It is also part of the M18 System, which offers over 200 solutions for various tasks.

What We Like
Efficient concrete drilling
Lightweight and portable
Strong battery performance
Compact design
High build quality
What We Don't Like
Feels slightly front heavy
#TOP 5

Ingersoll Rand 119MAXK Long Barrel Air Hammer Kit

119MAXK
Black / Gray
Long Barrel
Ingersoll Rand 119MAXK Long Barrel Air Hammer Kit Cover
Ingersoll Rand 119MAXK Vibration Reduced Long-Barrel Air Hammer 5-Piece Chisel Set, 2,530 BPM, 3-1/2" Stroke, Round Shank

The Ingersoll Rand 119MAXK Long Barrel Air Hammer Kit is a powerful tool designed for the car repair industry, heavy trucks, and MRO. It comes with a 5 PC chisel set to tackle various jobs such as fixing exhaust systems, bolt cutting, pin driving, and auto body shearing work. Its quick change retainer allows for easy swapping of chisel bits, while its compact and lightweight design generates 15% more impact force and 30% less vibration than standard air hammers. Additional features include shock reduction, anti-slip hand grip, and a swivel air inlet to prevent hose twisting during use. It is also durable enough to withstand tough environments and repeated drops.

What We Like
Powerful hammering force
Durable build quality
Easy bit changes
Reduced vibration fatigue
Great value price
What We Don't Like
High noise level
Occasional bit breakage
#TOP 6

VEVOR MAX 1400W Demolition Jack Hammer

Orange
VEVOR MAX 1400W Demolition Jack Hammer Cover
VEVOR Demolition Jack Hammer, MAX 1400W Electric Jackhammer Heavy Duty, 2900 BPM Concrete Breaker 2pcs Chisels Bits Chipping W/Case, Gloves

The VEVOR Demolition Jackhammer offers powerful performance with its 1400W motor and 19J impact energy, helping you finish tough concrete and metal projects faster and more accurately. You’ll appreciate the shock-absorbing handle that reduces strain and protects your hands during long use, making your work safer and more comfortable. The 360° rotating handle lets you work precisely in tight spots while cutting down on fatigue. Plus, this tool stays cool thanks to its efficient cooling system, which keeps the motor running smoothly even after extended heavy use, extending the tool’s life and reliability.

What We Like
Powerful 1400W motor
Competitive price
Lightweight and easy to handle
Durable included chisels
Effective on concrete and masonry
What We Don't Like
Limited bit compatibility
Occasional minor maintenance needed
#TOP 7

DongCheng Electric Rotary Hammer Drill

Rotary Hammer Drill
DongCheng Electric Rotary Hammer Drill Cover
Dong Cheng 1-1/8 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill with Safety Clutch, 9.2 Amp Heavy Duty Corded Demolition Hammer for Concrete, 3.6 Joules, Including 3 Drill Bits, Flat Chisels and Point Chisels

The DongCheng Rotary Hammer Drill is a powerful and durable tool designed for heavy-duty projects on concrete, masonry, and metal. With its 9.2 Amp motor, it delivers high RPM, BPM, and impact energy to tackle tough jobs. The safety clutch design ensures your wrist is protected and extends the motor's lifespan. The 2-function selector allows you to easily switch between rotary hammer and demolition drill modes, adapting to different work scenarios. The SDS-Plus chuck enables quick bit changes, while the ergonomic design with cushioned grip and vibration reduction mechanism provides comfort and control during use. The DongCheng Rotary Hammer Drill is a reliable and high-performing tool that comes with a range of accessories for added convenience.

What We Like
Strong build quality
Powerful performance
Affordable price
Includes bits and case
Great for concrete and masonry
What We Don't Like
Grease cap difficult to remove
Heavier for long horizontal use
#TOP 8

Deshuo SDS-Plus 9 Amp Rotary Hammer Drill

DESHUO
LD26
Green/Black
Small
Deshuo SDS-Plus 9 Amp Rotary Hammer Drill Cover
Deshuo 1" SDS-Plus Lightweight Rotary Hammer Drill, 9 Amp 4 Functions Corded Variable Speed Rotomartillo with Safety Clutch for Concrete, Includes 3 Drill Bits,2 Chisels,Carrying Case

The Deshuo Rotary Hammer Drill is a lightweight and powerful tool designed to make your drilling tasks easier. Weighing just over 7 pounds, it’s perfect for drilling overhead or downward without causing too much strain. The SDS-Plus bit system lets you change bits quickly without any extra tools, saving you time on the job. With a strong 9 AMP motor, this drill can handle tough materials like concrete, brick, and masonry with speeds up to 1,100 RPM and powerful impacts. Plus, it offers four different modes, so you can pick the best setting for your specific project, whether you need just rotation, hammering, or both combined.

What We Like
Exceptional value for price
Powerful hammer drill performance
Included carrying case and bits
Easy bit change system
Sturdy, well-built construction
What We Don't Like
Minor instructions confusion
Included bits not wide enough
#TOP 9

VEVOR 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill

1-1/4" SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
Yellow
1500W-1-1/4 Inch
VEVOR 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Cover
VEVOR 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill, 13 Amp Corded Drills, Heavy Duty Chipping Hammers w/Vibration Control & Safety Clutch, Electric Demolition Hammers Variable Speed, Power Tool For Concret

The VEVOR Rotary Hammer Drill is a powerful tool with a 13Amp motor, ideal for heavy-duty concrete and metalworking projects. Its four function modes allow you to drill, hammer, or do both, providing versatility for various tasks. You can adjust the speed and control vibrations, enhancing precision and safety during operation. The 360° adjustable handle offers comfort and control, while the SDS-Plus chuck allows easy bit changes. This multifunctional set includes various accessories for different applications, making it suitable for both professionals and home users.

What We Like
Solid build quality
Excellent value for price
Powerful for tough materials
Reliable performance
Versatile for home projects
What We Don't Like
Unclear instruction manual
Limited drill-only function
#TOP 10

DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill with Shocks, D-Handle, SDS, 1-1/8-Inch (D25263K)

D25263K
1-1/8"
1-1/8"
DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill with Shocks, D-Handle, SDS, 1-1/8-Inch (D25263K) Cover
DEWALT SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Vibration Control Shocks, Corded (D25263K)

The DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill is a high-performance power tool designed for fast drilling and chipping. With its 3.0 joules impact energy, it delivers a powerful and efficient drilling experience. The 8.5 amp motor ensures reliable and consistent performance. One of the standout features of this drill is the SHOCKS - Active Vibration Control, which reduces the vibration felt by the user, making it more comfortable to handle. The rotating brush ring allows for full power and torque in both forward and reverse, providing versatility for various applications. Additionally, the integral clutch prevents sudden, high torque reactions if the bit jams, ensuring user safety. With a 2-year free service warranty and compatibility with the D25301D drilling dust extraction system, the DEWALT Rotary Hammer Drill is a reliable and convenient choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Low vibration handle
Easy bit changes
Solid build quality
Comfortable grip
What We Don't Like
Lower section may heat up
Buying Guide Image

Tips for Choosing the Rotary Hammers

The first thing we want to make clear is that it is a power hammer, in this way we make sure that it really is the power tool you are looking for. Let’s get started! Power rotary hammers are known by several names, the most common are: Electro-pneumatic hammers, electric hammers, light hammers or combined hammers.

All of them are powerful power tools that are capable of both chiseling and drilling. Therefore it has the ability to drill and break hard materials. We must make it clear that the uses and capacities may vary depending on the model we buy, but as a rule with an electric hammer you can perform the following tasks.

  • Raise both tiles, wall and floor.
  • Chop and break all types of flooring for renovation.
  • Drilling very hard materials such as reinforced concrete, to install large anchors.
  • Roper and chop walls until completely demolished.

Power rotary hammers are tools that need power to work. Be it by cable or with a battery. Electricity allows the motor to perform two differentiated functions. On the one hand, it transmits the gears and teeth the power necessary to move the bits and therefore drill. On the other hand, thanks to a pneumatic piston, it is possible to generate the necessary force to carry out the knocking in the demolitions.

Power and strength

The power is expressed in watts (W) and the force in Joules (J). For tasks outside the professional field the most common hammers offer us from 1.2 to 15 joules, being able to reach 20 in the professional tools.

A power rotary hammer that allows us to carry out works of a certain size and with good value for money, are usually the models that offer us between 2.5 and 3.5 Joules, being more than enough for tasks outside the professional field.

The motor

We can find 2 different types of engines depending on where they are located. Electric hammers with horizontal motors tend to be lighter and give better results in roof work. With vertical motors it goes the other way, they have more weight and have great results in work, floor, and wall.

Weight and measurements

What you should know is that the more powerful hammers the more motor you need and therefore more weight and larger dimensions. A heavyweight hammer is usually tired of using it for a long time, so it is important that you really value what power you really need. To avoid buying very heavy and uncomfortable combined hammers, without need.

With cable or battery

As you will suppose the cordless models are easier to transport and therefore more comfortable and less dependent. But they are also more expensive if we want them with high powers.

On the other hand, the models with cable depend totally on a plug or extension to work being an impediment many times in works in the open air. But unlike with the cordless, we can get more powerful models with less money.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a rotary hammer used for?

A rotary hammer is primarily used for drilling holes in stone and concrete. It can also be used for chiseling work, such as removing tiles or even demolishing walls. By inserting a chisel into the SDS holder of the chuck, the rotary hammer can perform various chiseling tasks.

2. What is the difference between rotary hammer and demolition hammer?

The main difference between a rotary hammer and a demolition hammer lies in their power and functionality. Demolition hammers deliver more powerful blows, typically having about 35% more power. They have fewer parts and sometimes a longer piston stroke. In contrast, rotary hammers offer a combination of drilling and chiseling capabilities.

3. Is a rotary hammer better than a hammer drill?

Yes, a rotary hammer is generally considered better than a hammer drill. It is more powerful and produces significantly less vibration, making it more comfortable to use. The rotary hammer also has a higher impact rate, providing faster and more efficient drilling and chiseling.

4. Can you use a rotary hammer to dig?

Yes, a rotary hammer can be used for digging hard soil. It comes with various chisels and accessories, including ones specifically designed for digging. By attaching the appropriate chisel to the SDS-Max chuck, the rotary hammer can effectively dig into the ground.

5. What are the advantages of a rotary hammer?

The main advantages of a rotary hammer are its powerful performance and reduced vibration impact on the arms. Rotary hammers are strong tools that provide less strain on the arms, making them ideal for larger projects. They are the preferred choice for many professionals.

6. Can a rotary hammer break up concrete?

Yes, a rotary hammer can break up concrete. It is one of the handheld tools that can be used for vertical and horizontal concrete work. However, the suitability of a rotary hammer for concrete breaking may depend on the specific model and the size of the concrete.

7. Can a rotary hammer be used as a hammer drill?

Yes, most rotary hammers have multiple settings, including a drill mode and a hammer drill mode. This allows them to function as mini jackhammers, providing both drilling and hammering capabilities.

8. What are the disadvantages of a rotary hammer drill?

There are two main disadvantages of a rotary hammer drill. First, they tend to be heavier than hammer drills, which can make them more tiring to use over extended periods. Second, rotary hammers cannot operate in battery mode and require a continuous power source. Additionally, the battery life of rotary hammers is often shorter compared to other power tools.

Editor's Notes

During our rotary hammer research, we found 24 rotary hammer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 48,893 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rotary hammers list. We found that most customers choose rotary hammers with an average price of $155.96.

The rotary hammers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rotary hammers, including DEWALT, Milwaukee, Ingersoll Rand, VEVOR, Dong Cheng. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 174 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.

Rotary Hammers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand DEWALT DEWALT DEWALT Milwaukee Ingersoll Rand VEVOR Dong Cheng DESHUO VEVOR DEWALT
Power Source Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered, Corded Electric Air Powered Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric
Maximum Rotational Speed 1100 RPM 5550 RPM 1100 RPM 1330 RPM 2530 RPM 2900 RPM 1300 RPM 1100 RPM 940 RPM 1150 RPM
Voltage 20 20 Volts 20 Volts 18 Volts - 110 Volts 120 Volts 120 Volts (AC) 110 Volts 115 Volts
Amperage - 4 Amps - 4 Microamps - - 9.2 Amps 9 Amps 13 Amps 8.5 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 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.5
Where to Buy