The Best Cordless Hammer Drills – Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison
Because your movement isn’t restricted by a power lead, you’re free to use these handy tools in places corded drills can’t reach. While not as powerful as the mains-driven versions, the best cordless hammer drill can still push through concrete and brickwork. Nevertheless, we recommend you have a fully charged spare battery ready, to avoid downtime. Find out more by browsing our cordless hammer drill reviews and articles we’ve written for you.
- Robust metal housing.
- Two-speed transmission.
- The best pro-grade 18V hammer drill.
Cordless Hammer Drill Comparison Table
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best Professional
|
Best Professional
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon XPH07Z Review XPH07Z Review | |
|
Best for Masonry
|
Best for Masonry
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon DV18DBL2Q4 Review DV18DBL2Q4 Review | |
|
Best for Durability
|
Best for Durability
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon DCD996B Review DCD996B Review | |
|
Best Complete Kit
|
Best Complete Kit
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon HD527802 Review HD527802 Review | |
|
Best Choice of Torque Settings
|
Best Choice of Torque Settings
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon DCD985B Review DCD985B Review | |
|
Best Value
|
Best Value
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon PCC620LB Review PCC620LB Review |
Cordless Hammer Drill — Reviews and Buying Guide
How Does a Cordless Hammer Drill Work?
Stating the obvious — hammer drill cordless machines use batteries as their source of power. The biggest advantage of these cell-driven units is their portability. In other words, you can pack your tool and take it anywhere without having to think about extension cords, available power outlets, etc.
However, it’s not all good news. The most significant disadvantage of a battery powered hammer drill is its limited charge — that is, every cell will eventually need to be recharged. If you’re a DIYer, that probably isn’t a deal-breaker, but professionals don’t appreciate long downtimes. Hence, I recommend obtaining a spare battery that you can use while your other cell is being replenished.
Our Top Picks of the Best Cordless Hammer Drills
It features a brushless motor that delivers 1090 in-lbs of max torque. On top of that, the machine offers a two-speed transmission (0-550 rpm and 0-2100 rpm), which allows a wide range of applications. This is an entry-level hammer drill with a couple of pretty useful features — including a substantial side handle and LED lamp.
Features
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- 31500 bpm.
- Compact hammer drill design.
- Self-ratcheting 0.5-inch keyless chuck.
- Includes depth calibration rod.
- Respected manufacturer.
- Removable belt clip.
- The best 18v cordless hammer drill on the market.
- Three-stage LED light indicates battery power.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Pumping out a grunty 1205 in-lbs of torque, it will drill through hardwoods and metals as well as driving the thickest of lag bolts. And, featuring a brushless motor and proprietary Reactive Force Control — the internal components are shielded from overheating, extending their longevity.
Repetitive drilling and driving are simplified by the 2100 rpm output — controlled by an easy-pull trigger. Furthermore, boasting a lifetime warranty, reliability and durability are assured.
Features
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- Works off 18 or 36-volt Metabo lithium-ion batteries.
- Weighs just 3.5 pounds (without a battery).
- Keyless chuck.
- Excellent cordless concrete drill.
- Metal belt clip.
- Battery-life indicator.
- Hammers at 31500 bpm.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
The power tool comes with all the benefits you can expect from the DeWalt 20v max XR hammer drill series. For one, it sports a brushless motor that’s super-efficient and delivers high-grade transmission. And, because of the 820 UWO power, it can drill into a diverse range of masonry materials with ease and speed.
Although the batteries and chargers don’t come in the package, the machine itself offers excellent value.
Features
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- Sealed construction.
- Up to 2250 rpm Speed.
- Nitro-carburized metal chuck.
- Efficient brushless motor.
- LED lamp.
- Belt clip.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Featuring 17 torque settings, you can tailor the unit to suit the demands of your base material. Delivering 21750 bpm, it should rapidly power through tough brickwork and masonry, while its 1450 rpm chuck will ensure speedy completion of extensive driving projects.
Its 0.5-inch chuck allows you to utilize wide diameter bits and mixing accessories, while a built-in LED lamp means you can use this power tool on tasks with poor light.
- Standard, hammer, or screwdriving function.
- Incorporated belt clip.
- Variable speed trigger control — up to 1450 rpm.
- Respected manufacturer.
- Five-year warranty.
- Robust build.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
This unit features an LED light, with a 20-second delay after trigger release. It’s a great option if you ever have to deal with a project in dim light.
Versatility is also one of the tool’s notable advantages. One of the main differences between this DeWalt cordless hammer drill 20 volt and most other models is that it offers three speed settings instead of two. Therefore, you can set the rotation speed according to the application you’re about to tackle. Choose from 0-600 rpm, 0-1250 rpm, or 0-2000 rpm.
- Three-year warranty.
- Half-inch chuck.
- USA-based manufacturer.
- 35 percent more runtime than comparable batteries.
- Three speed settings.
- Rubberized comfort-grip handle.
- All metal gears.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
With an ergonomic design, it’s effortless to wield — staving off fatigue. The unit is made of high-quality components and comes complete with a hard plastic case. A rubberized handle ensures a firm, non-slip grip — while the keyless chuck features a torque dial, which allows you to fine-tune the machine according to your own preferences.
Some shortcomings do exist, and the first thing many users complain about is the lack of power. It’s great for light-to-medium duty jobs, but will struggle with particularly demanding projects. The second thing most people don’t like is the overall weight. With the battery included, it’s a hefty unit, which doesn’t compare favorably to other models that weigh significantly less.
- Includes two batteries and a charger.
- Magnetized bit storage.
- Two speed settings.
- 27200 bpm.
- 0.5-inch chuck.
- Three-year warranty.
- Left/right-handed operation.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
How to Choose a Cordless Portable Hammer Drill
Power
Another crucial factor is the amperage hours (Ah). The more Ah a battery has, the longer the operational running time — however, it will take longer to charge than a lower-rated battery.
Included Batteries and Charger
The charger is also an essential part of every kit. It’s strongly recommended that you go with fast-charging stations if your budget allows — enabling rapid replenishment of the drills cells. If you aren’t able to spend extra bucks on one of these units, consider investing in two batteries. That way, you can utilize one while the other is charging, significantly reducing downtime.
Torque
The higher the torque, the greater the ability to drill and drive into dense timber and metals. Although this grunt varies across models, remember that these machines don’t reach the mighty brawn of corded hammer drills. Hence, if the majority of your projects demand serious power, it may be worth considering a mains-driven unit instead.
Additionally, check to see if the drill boasts a wide spectrum of torque settings. The greater the number, the more efficiently you can tailor the output to suit your target material.
Chuck Size
Most prosumer and contractor-grade units are 0.5-inch in diameter — allowing you to utilize large bits and mixing accessories. Conversely, DIY machines tend to have 0.375 and 0.25-inch chucks — suitable for general home applications, but not ideal for the pro or hardcore amateur user.
Experience and Safety
Furthermore, keep your personal safety in mind when using a battery hammer drill — ensuring that you take precautionary measures before starting work. Don’t wear loose clothing, and don safety goggles and earplugs without fail. Even though most of these units aren’t particularly loud, constant use can still affect your hearing in the long term.
Conclusion
Hammer cordless drills are great tools, but you need to research carefully to find a quality product to ensure a good investment. If you’re looking for portability more than power, this is the category you should be looking at.
These machines are the most convenient for working in areas without a nearby power source. However, they aren’t the best choice for particularly demanding tasks, due to the inconsistencies related to batteries and their limitations. Different models have varying capabilities — compare features carefully, to ensure your final choice will actually do the job you’re buying it for.
If you’re on a tight budget and finances are more important than convenience, a corded hammer drill could be a better option. These units are typically more affordable, although they are more restrictive. If you’re an avid professional, looking for a commercial tool, a rotary hammer drill will generally take the edge.
Before buying any cordless product, particularly if it seems to be a bargain, remember to check what’s included. Most importantly, does the price include a battery? The additional cost of a power pack could make a significant difference to your final outlay.
Want to know more about a particular model? Don’t hesitate to check out our full reviews of the best cordless hammer drill units on the market.
Cordless Hammer Drills FAQs
Q: What Is the Best Cordless Hammer Drill?
In my opinion, boasting 1090 in-lbs of torque, a trade-grade 0.5-inch chuck, and a durable metal housing — the ultimate battery-powered hammer drill is the Makita XPH07Z.
Q: How Long Does the Battery Last on a Cordless Drill?
Factors such as torque settings, drill speed, and the density of your base material all affect battery life. Look for machines with a high Ah (amp hours) spec — as this determines the running time of the unit.
Q: Are Corded Hammer Drills Better Than Cordless Hammer Drills?
It depends on your requirements. Cordless machines offer greater portability, allowing you to operate in-the-field (literally) without access to mains power. Corded drills deliver higher torque and speed settings than their battery-powered counterparts.
Q: Can I Use Any Battery On a 20-Volt Cordless Drill?
No. While 20-volt lithium-ion cells are typically cross-compatible in tools from a single manufacturer — they cannot usually be used on different brands.
Q: What Is a Good BPM For a Battery-Powered Hammer Drill?
If you’re seeking serious brawn in your cordless drill with hammer action — look for a machine that delivers over 30000 bpm, such as the Makita XPH07Z.
Q: Do Cordless Hammer Drills Come With Batteries?
It depends on the make and model. Many manufacturers offer both tool-only and battery-included options — such as the Porter-Cable PCC620LB that comes complete with two cells, and the Porter-Cable PCC620B which is without power packs.