Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Mena here — a field installer with 15 years of concrete drilling experience. This 2026 edition is a comprehensive roundup of the hammer drills and rotary hammers I’ve actually used on concrete-drilling jobsites. I’ll cover cordless (18V/36V/40Vmax) vs. corded AC, SDS-Plus vs. SDS-Max, and help you pick the right model from Makita, HiKOKI, Bosch, and DEWALT for your specific application.
The optimal hammer drill varies significantly depending on the bore diameter, bore depth, and working environment. Using an underpowered model increases the risk of poor drilling results and broken bits. Choosing the right spec is directly linked to construction quality and safety.
メナDrilling errors during anchor installation are extremely difficult to correct. Starting with the right tool and the right bit is the foundation of construction quality management.
Hammer Drill Types and Features
SDS-Plus vs. SDS-Max: Shank Standard Differences
SDS-Plus is the most widely adopted standard, covering bore diameters of roughly Φ4–28mm. It handles the majority of general construction and M&E work — wall drilling and anchor installation. It also offers the widest variety of bit options at the most competitive prices.
SDS-Max is the higher-tier standard above SDS-Plus, handling large-diameter drilling of roughly Φ28–80mm and core drill pilot holes. It’s heavier, but enables heavy-duty chiseling and large-diameter drilling into structural elements.
Cordless vs. Corded AC
Cordless machines let you move freely and work at heights without any cord management. Higher voltage — 18V, 36V, 40Vmax — means greater drilling capacity. Battery management is required, but recent high-capacity batteries and high-efficiency motors have made cordless tools genuinely competitive.
Corded AC machines deliver continuous full power wherever a power outlet is available. They’re less expensive up front and are the standard choice for indoor M&E work and renovation. On sites where power is accessible, AC tools still dominate.
Drilling Capacity and Operating Modes
Hammer drills typically offer 3 operating modes: “Rotation + Hammering,” “Rotation Only,” and “Hammering Only (Chiseling).” Use “Rotation + Hammering” for concrete, brick, and stone. “Hammering Only” is for concrete chiseling and chisel work. “Rotation Only” is for standard drilling in wood and metal.
Selection Guide by Bore Diameter and Application
Φ6–16mm (Sleeve Anchors, Plug Anchors)
This is the most common size range for M&E wall drilling and equipment mounting. An 18V SDS-Plus machine (Makita HR244DRGX, HiKOKI DH18DPA, etc.) is more than sufficient. If you do a lot of overhead work at height, a lightweight gun-handle type is easier to manage.
Φ18–26mm (Chemical Anchors M12–M16)
This is the size range for chemical anchors used to secure steel frames and mechanical equipment. Upper-tier 18V SDS-Plus machines (Makita HR244DRGX, Bosch GBH18V-26F) can handle this. Deep drilling is required, so a model with a depth stop makes construction management much easier.
Φ28mm and Above (Large Anchors, Core Drill Pilot Holes)
These bore diameters correspond to large anchors M20–M24 used for heavy load-bearing and structural reinforcement applications. You’ll need a 36V/40Vmax SDS-Plus machine (HiKOKI DH36DPA, Makita HR001GRDX) or an SDS-Max machine (HiKOKI DH18DBL).
SDS Bit Standards and Compatibility Guide
SDS-Plus (10mm diameter shank) and SDS-Max (18mm diameter shank) are not interchangeable. You cannot fit an SDS-Max bit in an SDS-Plus tool, and vice versa. Always confirm the bit standard before purchasing a tool.
Basic bit selection rules: “Concrete bits → carbide tip,” “Core drills → WC (tungsten carbide) tip,” “Chiseling → SDS chisel.” Always choose the correct bit length for the required bore diameter × depth — this is a prerequisite for drilling accuracy.
メナSDS-Plus and SDS-Max differ in the size of the locking pins and slots on the shank. Adapters exist for conversion, but using dedicated bits is recommended.
Drilling Capacity Comparison Table
Below is a key spec comparison for each model. Bore diameters shown are nominal maximum values — in practice, allow margin when selecting your diameter.
| Model | Power | SDS Standard | Max Concrete Bore | Impact Energy | Weight (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita HR244DRGX | 18V cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ24mm | 2.4J | ~2.7kg |
| Makita HR001GRDX | 40Vmax cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ28mm | 6.0J | ~3.5kg |
| Makita HR2631F | AC100V | SDS-Plus | Φ26mm | 2.8J | ~2.6kg |
| HiKOKI DH36DPA | 36V cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ28mm | 6.2J | ~3.3kg |
| HiKOKI DH18DPA | 18V cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ18mm | 1.9J | ~2.1kg |
| HiKOKI DH18DBL | 18V cordless | SDS-Max | Φ45mm | 8.5J | ~6.4kg |
| Bosch GBH18V-26F | 18V cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ26mm | 2.6J | ~2.8kg |
| Bosch GBH2-28DFV | AC100V | SDS-Plus | Φ28mm | 3.2J | ~3.0kg |
| Bosch GBH2-28F | AC100V | SDS-Plus | Φ28mm | 3.2J | ~2.7kg |
| DEWALT DCH273M2 | 18V cordless | SDS-Plus | Φ24mm | 2.1J | ~2.8kg |
Top 10 Cordless Hammer Drills and Rotary Hammers — Pro Picks
Makita HR244DRGX Cordless Hammer Drill — 18V, 24mm, SDS-Plus
メナThe HR244DRGX has the best balance of usability and versatility in the 18V class. It handles up to Φ24mm in concrete, which covers 90% of drilling tasks on a typical construction site.
The Makita HR244DRGX is a 24mm SDS-Plus hammer drill powered by an 18V Li-ion battery. Maximum drilling capacity: concrete Φ24mm, steel Φ13mm, wood Φ32mm — covering a wide range of applications from general construction wall drilling to anchor installation. This full kit includes 2× BL1860B batteries, DC18RF charger, and a carrying case.
3-mode selector (Rotation+Hammering / Rotation Only / Hammering Only) covers drilling, hammer drilling, and chiseling. Brushless motor extends battery runtime — more holes per charge. Built-in LED light for clear visibility in dark work areas.
Makita’s 18V series uses a shared battery platform — the same battery works in impact drivers, circular saws, dust extractors, and more. On sites already running Makita tools, adding the HR244DRGX means your existing battery investment covers this tool too.
Makita HR001GRDX Cordless Hammer Drill — 40Vmax, 28mm, SDS-Plus
メナOnce you’ve felt the power of 40Vmax, you won’t go back to 18V. Continuous anchor drilling in reinforced concrete and it doesn’t slow down at all. That’s the appeal of the HR001GRDX.
The Makita HR001GRDX is a large 28mm cordless hammer drill compatible with the 40Vmax XGT battery series. It delivers approximately 1.5× the impact energy of an 18V machine (6.0J), enabling high-speed Φ28mm drilling into reinforced concrete and deep drilling into hard stone. Full kit includes 2× BL4025 batteries and DC40RA charger.
The brushless motor combined with 40Vmax delivers corded AC hammer drill equivalent power — cordless. Ideal for large-diameter drilling at height or outdoors where a power source isn’t available. One-touch chuck for tool-free bit changes.
AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) dramatically reduces the amount of vibration transmitted to the user. Less fatigue during continuous drilling operations — an important factor from an occupational health and safety standpoint. Adoption is accelerating on sites transitioning to the Makita XGT platform.
Makita HR2631F Hammer Drill — AC100V, 26mm, SDS-Plus
メナWith a corded machine, you never think about battery life. Full power as long as there’s an outlet. Many M&E tradespeople still use AC tools as their primary machine on site — and for good reason.
The Makita HR2631F is an AC100V-powered 26mm SDS-Plus hammer drill. Maximum drilling capacity: concrete Φ26mm, steel Φ13mm, wood Φ32mm. It’s the go-to model for indoor M&E work and renovation where power outlets are available. The ability to work continuously without managing battery charge is its greatest strength.
AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) reduces vibration, and 3-mode selection (Rotation+Hammering / Rotation Only / Hammering Only) is standard. With 0–4,600 blows per minute and 2.8J of impact energy, it’s more than capable for continuous concrete drilling.
Significantly less expensive than cordless alternatives. Popular as a secondary or entry-level machine for electrical contractors and renovation tradespeople. SDS-Plus bits are widely available, making consumables easy to source. A proven model worth having on site as a permanent installation tool.
HiKOKI DH36DPA Cordless Rotary Hammer — 36V MultiVolt, 28mm
メナThe MultiVolt DH36DPA is impressive for delivering full 36V power while staying compatible with 18V tools. Right up there with the Makita 40Vmax — it’s at the top of the cordless rotary hammer class.
The HiKOKI DH36DPA (DH36DPA(2XP) full kit) is a MultiVolt (36V) SDS-Plus cordless rotary hammer. With maximum concrete drilling at Φ28mm and 6.2J of impact energy, it matches the Makita 40Vmax in drilling capacity — both are at the top of their class. The included MultiVolt battery BSL36A18 is compatible with both 36V and 18V tools.
The “ADVance Technology (ADV)” vibration absorption system reduces hand-transmitted vibration to class-leading levels. Vibration values comfortably below Japanese occupational health measurement standards, enabling comfortable operation during extended use.
HiKOKI (formerly Hitachi Koki) has a long track record in professional construction and M&E jobsites. The MultiVolt series uses a single battery type for both 18V and 36V tools, enabling unified battery management across all MultiVolt tools on site.
HiKOKI DH18DPA Cordless Rotary Hammer — 18V, 18mm, SDS-Plus
メナThe gun-handle grip really pays off for overhead work. The DH18DPA is lightweight and well-balanced — ceiling drilling on a ladder is genuinely manageable.
The HiKOKI DH18DPA (2XP) is a gun-handle style 18V cordless rotary hammer. Maximum concrete drilling Φ18mm, body weight 2.1kg with battery — a lightweight, compact design purpose-built for overhead drilling and anchor setting in elevated and confined spaces. Includes 2 batteries, charger, and case.
The pistol grip shape provides stable one-handed holding. Pair with the full-handle DH36DPA for complete coverage of diverse drilling tasks on large sites. Being SDS-Plus, bits are shared with the DH36DPA.
In M&E work (electrical, HVAC, plumbing wall penetrations), sleeve anchor drilling at Φ13–18mm is the most common task, so the DH18DPA’s Φ18mm capacity covers the majority of jobsites. Its 18V battery is shared across HiKOKI’s 18V platform — use your existing batteries.
HiKOKI DH18DBL Cordless Rotary Hammer — 18V, SDS-Max
メナThe SDS-Max DH18DBL is the go-to machine on sites that need large-diameter anchor holes or core drill pilot holes. It handles Φ32mm+ boring cordlessly — something SDS-Plus tools simply can’t do.
The HiKOKI DH18DBL (NN) is an SDS-Max 18V cordless rotary hammer (tool body only). SDS-Max supports large-diameter bits and core drills — used when the drilling requirement exceeds the practical limit of SDS-Plus (generally Φ26–28mm). Suited for chemical anchor M16/M20 boring and concrete core pilot hole work.
SDS-Max drilling was traditionally dominated by corded AC machines, but the DH18DBL has earned jobsite recognition as a cordless tool that can handle SDS-Max large-diameter work. Large-diameter drilling in locations without power is now possible.
SDS-Max bits are not compatible with SDS-Plus, so dedicated bits are required. Best suited to civil engineering and heavy structural steel sites with frequent large anchor installation (chemical anchors, all-anchors), and concrete structure repair work. Tool body only — pair with your existing batteries.
Bosch Professional GBH18V-26F — SDS-Plus 18V Cordless Rotary Hammer
メナBosch’s GBH18V-26F meets German construction site quality standards. When you’re maintaining European-origin construction equipment and systems with Bosch tools, the parts tolerance confidence is on a different level.
The Bosch Professional GBH18V-26F (with 6.0Ah batteries ×2, charger, and case) is an SDS-Plus 18V cordless rotary hammer. Maximum concrete drilling Φ26mm, 2.6J of impact energy — a globally dominant tool as the European construction site standard.
Kickback sensor detects sudden rebound when a bit locks, and stops the motor immediately. Bosch Professional’s strong safety features are particularly well-regarded by beginners and site supervisors. SDS-Plus Quick-Change chuck for tool-free, one-action bit changes.
Bosch’s 18V series battery is shared across all Bosch Professional power tools. On construction and plant engineering sites that use European-origin equipment and materials, Bosch tends to be the preferred choice for both equipment compatibility and after-service infrastructure.
Bosch Professional GBH2-28DFV — SDS-Plus Hammer Drill, AC100V
メナThe GBH2-28DFV’s depth stop feature is the deciding factor. Set the depth and drill away — anchor installation depth management becomes dramatically easier.
The Bosch Professional GBH2-28DFV is an AC100V-powered SDS-Plus large hammer drill. Concrete drilling Φ28mm, 800W, 3.2J impact energy — sustained high output that cordless tools can’t match. The “D” in the model name means a built-in depth stop (depth control), enabling precise management of drilling depth.
The Vario-Lock (F) mechanism locks chisels and points at any angle, improving chiseling efficiency. An all-rounder that handles concrete chiseling and cutting work. Includes a 5m cord for convenient use wherever power is available.
In anchor installation, drilling depth accuracy directly impacts construction quality. The GBH2-28DFV’s depth stop reliably stops at the preset depth for Φ14–28mm drilling corresponding to chemical anchors M12–M16 — improving work precision significantly.
Bosch Professional GBH2-28F — SDS-Plus Hammer Drill, AC100V
メナThe GBH2-28F is simple, lightweight, and if there’s power available it’s cheaper and easier to use than cordless. A trusted bestseller that renovation tradespeople have been running as standard equipment for years.
The Bosch Professional GBH2-28F is an AC100V SDS-Plus hammer drill. It packs a high-output 880W motor with Φ28mm concrete drilling capacity into a compact 2.7kg body. It’s the standard model from the GBH2-28DFV — same core but without the depth stop.
3-mode selector (Rotation+Hammering / Rotation Only / Hammering Only) covers all drilling and chiseling tasks. SDS-Plus Quick-Change chuck for one-touch bit swaps. The tool for tradespeople who want to skip the battery management and focus on the work.
Handles everything from concrete wall drilling to brick and mortar chiseling. A bestseller that renovation contractors and M&E tradespeople have continued to choose as their jobsite tool of choice. Covers the general-purpose anchor bore range of Φ10–22mm, with an extensive bit consumables market to support it.
DEWALT DCH273M2 Cordless Hammer Drill — 18V, 24mm, SDS-Plus
メナDEWALT’s 18V hammer drill has outstanding low-vibration design. Built to American construction site standards — during repeated large-diameter and deep drilling, hand fatigue is noticeably less than with Makita.
The DEWALT DCH273M2 (18V / 4.0Ah batteries ×2 + charger) is an SDS-Plus 18V cordless hammer drill. Maximum concrete drilling Φ24mm, 2.1J impact energy, brushless motor — efficient battery consumption and high drilling capacity in one package. Genuine Japanese-market import.
SHOCKS Active Vibration Control significantly reduces vibration transmission to the user’s hand and arm. High effectiveness for reducing fatigue during continuous drilling — with a track record of adoption on sites that need to comply with occupational health standards for vibration-related disorders.
DEWALT is North America’s leading power tool manufacturer, widely adopted across construction and plant engineering jobsites worldwide. The DEWALT 18VMAX battery is shared with impact drivers, circular saws, jigsaws, and other tools. Also a good fit for sites that want to standardize tools around American-origin construction equipment.
Recommended Configurations by Application
M&E / Electrical Work (Mainly Φ10–18mm)
HiKOKI DH18DPA (lightweight gun-handle 18V) + Makita HR2631F (AC backup). Use the lightweight cordless machine as primary, and the AC machine for long sessions where power is available.
Civil Engineering / Construction Large Anchor Installation (Φ22–28mm)
Makita HR001GRDX (40Vmax) or HiKOKI DH36DPA (36V). High-power cordless for large-diameter, high-speed drilling. Where power is available, use the Bosch GBH2-28DFV’s depth stop for precision depth management.
Heavy Load Foundation / Structural Repair (SDS-Max)
HiKOKI DH18DBL (SDS-Max cordless) + Bosch GBH2-28DFV (AC supplement). Cordless SDS-Max for sites without power; AC machine for efficient work near site offices with power access.
メナBit selection is equally important for hammer drills. Using the wrong brand or diameter for the machine reduces drilling accuracy and increases the risk of bit breakage.
Summary
Cordless hammer drills show a clear capability difference between 18V and 36V/40Vmax. For everyday M&E work (Φ18mm and under), a lightweight 18V machine is sufficient. For large anchor installation (Φ24–28mm), the drilling speed and reliability of 36V/40Vmax gives a clear advantage. AC machines offer excellent cost-performance where power is available — worth having as a supplement to cordless tools. SDS-Max is specialized for large-diameter drilling (Φ30mm+) and heavy chiseling — general M&E work can typically be handled entirely with SDS-Plus. Choose the right tool for your application and site environment.